S061 S AV« 



WARNING! 

This Play must not be Publicly per- 
formed or presented without the consent 
of the authors. 



T HE 
CALIFORNIAN 



A PLAY 
IN FIVE ACTS 



BY 



DAVID K. HIGGINS 



AND 



BALDWIN GARDINER COOKE 



SOLE PROPERTY OF THE AUTHORS 



Copyright 
DAVID K. HIGGINS and BALDWIN GARDINER COOKE 

1902 



TMt LIbhARY SF 

U«NURtuy, 
T«0 CX)r<M RlO«/v«» 

MAr. 3 1902 

(OtASa JPxxa No. 
OOPY & 



wA3^>^ 









d3 



I 



*'Tke Californian 



9^ 



CAST OF CHARACTERS. 

JOSEl'll lUlAXTOX, tli.{'alif..rniiiii 

FOXHALL DOWNS, th.' KiMitii.'kian 

TOM I.I.NSON. th.' rriciid 

WILLY LAWNSDALK. tlir Kin- ..f tlir Dud.'- 

NED rENN.tlu' H.'iH.it.T 

NOKM AX (ULES. tin- liaiik.M 

JOHN HOOD, the Hiok.r 

THE MAKKEH 
THE CALLEli 

THE CASHIEli 

THE spec;tatok 

THE OLD Sl'OKT 

THE IJUTLER 

VIOLA, th.' wir.- 

FAITH HAVENS, tlie H«iress 

ALICIA, tho IJarikcr's Daughter 

MRS. (;iLKS, the Banker's Wife 

MAKY, the Mai. I 

Ladii's, « iiTiilt'incii, Ik'ttxirs, Jockeys. •»!<> 



SCENES iai-1 in Now Y<>rk City ami at lion^r Uram-li ami Shi'f|>shou<l 

•*.*• **.*• ": "•*.: '''{''{'' : ': ': 'liaj-'V-i'"- I'nu-k. 



ACT I. 

SCENE : A library backed by dining-room, in Braxton's house, 
Aladison avenue, New York City. 

Set: Door L. 2 E. and door with portiere R. 2 E. 
Large P>ench window L. i E. Folding doors, practical, 
C. in F. — when opened disclosing dining-room. Taljle set, 
etc. Desk, safe, books, bric-a-brac, paintings, easels, large 
Rochester lamj). R. Rooms sumptuously furnished. 

Discovered : Linson seated L. Hood leaning on back of Linson's 
chair. Lawnsdale seated L. C. Penn leaning against back 
of large chair R. Giles up R. C. regarding bric-a-brac, etc. 

Penn — Ha! Ha! Ha! That's good. That's the best Fve heard 
in a long while. 

Hood — Ah ! but _\"ou"re the sl\- dog, Tom Linson. 

Linson — Oh ! Willy doesn't mind. He can stand a laugh once 
in a while. 

Lawnsdale — Bah ! It was a beastl}- thing to do. Take an- 
other chappie's lady friend, and put up a scheme with her to send 
a chappie away whilst they eat the spread he ordered. Awfully 
low tone of you, Tom. . 

(Linson laughs, goes up to Giles. Hood turns to look out 
of window. Penn seated down R. C. writing in note 
book. Lawnsdale comes down to Penn.) 

Giles (To Linson) — No expense spared here, Linscn r 

(Enter, Servant, R. U. E.) 
Servant — Mr. Braxton, gentleman wishes me to convey his 
apologies. He is unavoidably detaine^^l, and will be with you in 
.a few moments. 

(Exit, R. U. E.) 
(Giles coming down L. C. Linson C.) 

Giles — Penn, you have material here for quite an article. 

Penn — Yes, sir. A western millionaire's new mansion with a 
■description of our dinner, and also an item, the sale of a gold 
mine. 

Giles — B\' the waw Linson, how did you come to stumble over 
this mine? 

Linson — Ah ! You should have been in on that. Too late 
now. Braxton's the lucky one. 

Giles — ^How was it? Tell me. 

Linson — Blind fortune that led the cha]) who owned the claim 
to my office. I gave but little attention to his story. 

Hood — Naturally. Supposing it to l)e of the usual piscatorial 
flavor. 

Linson — ^Yes. Accidentally, I happened to mention of it one 
dav whilst in the company of my two friends here (Points to 
Lawnsdale and Hood), and Mr. Braxton. 

Lawnsdale — Awfully jolly way you did it. Tom. No slow 
■coach, don't vou knpw. (Penn looks keenly at Linson. Hood 
frowns at Lawnsdale. Giles Smiles suspiciously.) Urn! 



Linson— Well, to make a long story short, at Braxton's sug- 
gestion I sent for the owner of the mine, and Braxton agreed to- 
purchase if things were as claimed. So he sent me on wath an 
expert to investigate and report. I just returned from California 
yesterday. 

Giles — Sale consummated ? 

Linson — Well, yes; I advanced a few thousand to bind the 
bargam, and have here the transfer of title to our host. 
(Refers to satchel on safe.) 

Giles — What's the price? 

Linson — Well, knowing Braxton won't object, Lll tell you. 
Only eighty-five thousand dollars. (Giles whistles.) But it's a 
bonanza. 

Penn— I hope so. I wish him luck. He's the besi of good 
fellows. One blustering night last March Braxton and I were 
crossing Madison Square, and one of those shabby, genteel old 
beggars stopped us. "Gentlemen," he said, "I am starving, lend 
me five dollars, and I promise you, on mv word of honoV. that 
I will never repay you." Braxton laughed, tossed him a ten- 
dollar bill, and went on. That's Joe Braxton, gentlemen. 

(Enter, Braxton R. L^ E., down C.) 

Linson (Jumping up; — Ah! Braxton, here you are. 

(Braxton takes Linson's hand first, then each of the others 
who greet him — manner very cordial.) 

Braxton — Good afternoon, gentlemen ; good afternoon, and 
welcome, welcome, all of you. Sorry to have been detained, and, 
Lawnsdale too. 

(Grips his hand hard.) 

Hood — We took the liberty of inspecting your mansion while 
waiting. 

Giles — Fine house. 

Linson — Braxton, I must congratulate you. 

Penn — It's right up to date. 

Braxton — But you've only seen a part of it : before you leave 
I will show you over. Ha ! ha ! You will see a house. Yes, 
gentlemen, I like it. It's a present to my wife. I expect her here 
to-morrow, from Frisco. 

Penn — ^Does she travel alone? 

Braxton — No, she brings with her an artist. 

Omnes — -An artist? 

Braxton — A young lady, gentlemen, who is to remain with 
us some weeks and then proceed to Paris. I have never met her. 

Lawnsdale — ^Then you don't know whether she is pretty? 

Braxton — Of course she is. All our California girls are; and 
she's rich, too. Chance for you, Tom. 

Linson — I'm not in the marrying line. 

Lawnsdale — What's the fair Raphael's name? 

Braxton — Faith Havens. 

Penn — Faith Havens ! I know her, know her well. We used 
to go to school together in Frisco. 

Braxton-^ — You don't say. 

Penn — Yes. Her Uncle Blood, the Bonanza King, left her a 
splendid legacy ; something to the tune of a half a million. 



Lawnsdale — Tune, my deah boy — why that's a grand opera. 
Braxton — That's the young lady. 
Penn — The best girl in the world. Dear old Faith. 
Lawnsdale — Ah ! I shall take great pleasure in calling early, 
J\lr. Braxton. 

(All laugh.) 

Giles (To Braxton) — You've made over this house to your 
wife, you say? 

Braxton^- Yes, sir. My wife has a free title to everything. 
It's my last day as boss, so let's celebrate it. 

Lawnsdale — Without the refining influence of woman. 

I'enn — Lawnsdale's mind is always on women. 

Lawnsdale— Can't help it, dear boy; their minds are always 
on me. 

(-\11 laugh. J 

(Servant enters R. Braxton gives him an order.) 

Hood — If the intended hostess is as jolly as her better-half, 
we may expect many festive opportunities. 

(Butler ushers in Downs, L. 3 E.) 

Braxton (Turns, sees Downs, advances to him, cordially 
shaking his hand) — Ah! At last. I was beginning to fear you 
would not come. 

Downs — I reckon I'm on time. ^Ir. Braxton. 

Braxton — So you are. Gentlemen, my friend, Mr. Downs of 
Kentucky. Mr. Hood, a broker, likewise my friend, Mr. Lin- 
son. Mr. Penn. of the Xew York Trumpeter; Mr. Giles, my 
banker; and, last but not least, Mr. Lawnsdale. 

(Bus. of acknowledgments.) 

Downs — Gentlemen, very happy to meet you all. 

Braxton — Mr. Downs has come on here to run his liorse in 
the Suburban, and we must wish him luck. 

Lawnsdale — .Vh ! ]\Ir. Downs, my deah fellow. I don't think 
vou have anv show to win : my horse Sunflower is entered. 

Penn — That old skate. 

(All laugh.) 
Downs — Well, Mr. Lawnsdale, form is like the moon. Tt 
changes many times a month. There's two twixt us and race day. 
Braxton-^Well, may the best horse win and not a fluke. 
X)owns — Mr. Braxton, at heart you are a true sportsman. 
(Doors open C., disclosing dining-room, sideboard, etc. 
Table set for dinner, flowers, wine, etc.) 

Servant — Dinner is served. 
Braxton — Gentlemen, permit me. 

( All enter C. Business. Doors closed.) 
(Laughter off C.) 
( Pause.) 

(Electric bell rings off L.) 
(Laughter off C.) 
(Pause.) 



(Enter, Maid, door L. 2 E., followed by Viola Braxton and Faith 
Havens in traveling dress.) 

(Maid X'es as if to exit R.) 
Viola (C.) — Where are you going, girl? 
Maid — To tell Mr. Braxton of your arrival. 
Viola — No necessity. Mr. Braxton is entertaining guests, is 
he not? 

Maid — Yes, Madam, a dinner party. 

(Loud laughter off C.) 

Viola (To Faith)— You see, my dear, what a rioter you en- 
counter on your very entrance. 

Faith (L.) — I trust we shall not have to join the revelry. 
Maid — We did not expect Madam until to-morrow. 
Viola (To Faith, aside)— "We!" (To Maid) Oh, indeed! 
Are there any ladv guests? 
Maid— No, Madam. 
Viola (To Faith) — Surprising. (To Maid) You may see that 
our rooms are ready. I do not wish Mr. Braxton to know of our 
arrival until I so direct. Be quick. 
(Laughter off C.) 
Maid — Yes, Madam. (Aside) I like Mr. Braxton best. 
(Exit R.) 

Faith (Looking around) — ^How elegant everything is. 

Viola (Sits R. C.) — The eye of the artist always attracted by 
the beautiful. 

Faith (Stands C.) — It is faultless — perfect in tone, re- 
fined 

Viola — Thanks to the taste of the furnisher, and not of Mr. 
Braxton. 

(Laughter off C.) 

Faith — How happy you might be if he were only different. 

Viola — I am quite contented. Mr. Braxton and I understand 
each other perfectly. He lives his life, I live mine. We never 
interfere with each other's pleasures so long as they are not ob- 
trusive. T shall have to discharge that girl ; she's too pretty. 

Faith (Sits L. C. ) — Is marriage a failure? 

Viola — No, my dear, but man is. 

(Laughter off C. Clink of glasses.) 
Viola (Rises. Impatiently) — Why doesn't that girl hurry? 

(Enter, Maid, R.) 
Maid — This way. Madam. 

(Exit R.) 
Viola — Well, come dear. You shall have a good time in New 
York. 

(At door R.) 
Faith (X to door R.) — I know I shall never like it as I do- 
dear old Frisco. j 
(Exit, Viola and Faith, R.) 
(Folding doors opened by Servant.) 



T 

Braxton — That's it, George. Throw them wide open. 
(Party at tal)le. Wine glasses, filled, in hands.) 
(Places at table: Lawnsdale R., Braxton C, Linson L. C.» 

Hood L., Giles opposite Braxton.) 
(All showing the effects of a little too much champagne.) 

Linson (Rising, glass in hand) — Gentlemen, to our host. 
May sorrow never dim his eye, nor care wrinkle his brow, and 
upon the roster of the self-made men of our country may time 
ever keep bright the name of Joseph IJraxton. 

(Applause. All stand. Empty glasses. Braxton rises 
and bows. ) 

Omnes — Speech ! Speech ! 

(Glasses filled.) 

Braxton — Gentlenien : I am proud to have you here, my- 
guests ; and I am proud to know that everything I have was got 
through my own efforts, and, gentlemen, I mean to enjoy it. 
\\'hat"s the good of money if you don't spend it for pleasure? 
What's the use of living if you can't grow from the shade into 
the sunshine? At twenty I was down and every man's heel 
seemed to crush me; but I said. "Braxton, you want a different 
soil to thrive upon ;" and with a jumper on my back and an axe 
on my shoulder I bade Frisco, good-bye and started for the Red- 
woods, l^'or five years I led the life of a wood-chopper in those 
grand old forests, and I made money. To get this white roll, 
(Picks up roll bread.) I have eaten black bread so hard I had 
to break it with a stone, but I made money. To be able to pur- 
chase this wine (Holds up wineglass filled) I have known a 
. thirst that cracks your tongue ; but I made money. Away to the 
broad plains of Texas I went ; bought cattle, rode with the wild 
herds hundreds of miles, fought the prairie fires — and I made 
money. Fill them up. gentlemen. (All drink.) Again. I palled 
stakes and sought the grain regions, bought and sold — more 
mone}-. Back to Frisco, tackled the market — money, money ; and 
to-day, gentlemen. I can write my check for a million. But I 
am not through. I shall make more, not to hoard in coffers, but 
to spend, to build colleges and libraries that sh^ll bear my name. 
Pleasure and fame are what I seek ; so that the name of Joe 
Braxton will stand, as the successful wrestler who has thrown 
the world. 

(Sits down.) 

Omnes — r»ravo ! Bravo! Bravo! 

Penn (Enthusiastically) — (Gentlemen, we should be proud to 
live in a country that produces such men. 

Giles — A country wdiere a rail-splitter lea])ed to the head of 
the nation, and a tanner boy became the guest of monarchs. 

Hood — ^Where all men are equal. 

Linson — In all respects except as to the length of their bank 
accounts. 

Lawnsdale (Tipsy) — And Em the only King they ever 
crowned. 

Hood — And who's your royal highness? 

Penn (Puts flowers on Lawnsdale's head) — Lonny? Why 
he's King of the Dudes. 



Linson (At Downs) — Our friend from the south is silent. 
Surely there are no remembrances of the past. 

Downs — Sah ! I am an American. That little affair that took 
place between us, gentlemen, taught Europe how Americans can 
shoot. 

Braxton (Jumping up) — Right you are. (Glass up) Here's 
to the boy in Blue and his brother in Gray. 

Downs (Jumps up — clinks glasses) — Both thoroughbreds, by 
Gad, sah ! 

(Omnes drink.) 

Braxton (Coming down) — And now, gentlemen. (To Ser- 
vant) George, the cigars. 

(Business; all come out of dining-room. Servant brings 
cigars. All smoke.) 

Lawnsdale (To Mood, coming down) — Awfully jolly fellow. 
(Braxton and Giles come down. Others remain up. Lin- 
son goes to safe, from top of which he takes satchel, 
opens it and gets papers, deed, etc., during the follow- 
ing. Penn and Downs together; Lawnsdale and Hood.) 

Giles (To Braxton) — You ought to be a happy man, friend 
Braxton. 

Braxton — 1 am happ}', sir. 

Giles — 'Have you any children? 

Braxton — No. There's something money can't buy — the face 
of a child that looks me in the eyes and says "Dad." 

Giles— How long have you been married? 

Braxton — About three years. 

Giles — Oh ! then you have hopes. 

Braxton — Lots of them. If they only pan out. 

Linson (Comes down with paper) — Mr. Braxton, here are 
your title deeds to the mine. Your attorney sent them to me 
this morning. He says they are flawless. 
(Hands deeds to Braxton.) 

Braxton — Thanks, Tom. Excuse me, gentlemen. 

(Business — seats himself at desk R., unlocks, writes 
check.) 

Lawnsdale (Up stage) — Hood, your coat's a beastly fit. You 
go to my tailor — (Hands card) Tell him I sent you. 

Penn — Ah! Oh! (To a by-stander) King of the Dudes 
recommends his tailor to a friend. 

Hood — All right, my boy ; obliged to you. 

Braxton — Here you are. (Hands check to Linson) My 
check for eighty-five thousand dollars. 

Linson (Taking check) — Right. 
Braxton (Takes deeds)— Now, then, that gold mine is the 
property of Joe Braxton. 

Linson — Yes, and it is a mint, too. 
(Puts check in pocket.) 

Giles (To Braxton) — Have you ever seen this mine, Mr. 
Braxton ? 

Braxton (Putting papers in desk) — Xo ; but Tom has. and 
that's just as good. 



Giles (Smilingly) — Well, Mr. Linson, you evidently possess 
all of Mr. Braxton's confidence. 

Liraxton (Locks desk and turns round in chair) — He does. 
I never fell into the hands of rascals but once. It was dur- 
ing the Los Angeles land boom. I was speculating in real estate. 
Some fellows put up a job to sell me some lots to which they 
hadn't a clear title. I shall never forget that day when Tom Lin- 
son, a total stranger, came to me and showed up the plot. I was 
about to close up the sale, and the hounds threatened Tom for 
interfering;' but he snatched away tlie papers and threw the 
pieces in their rascally faces. 

Omnes — Good ! Good ! That's the stuff ! etc. 

Braxton (Rising, puts hand on Linson's shoulder) — I said 
then, here's a man to tie to. 

Linson (Deprecatingly ) — I only acted as any man would 
have d(^ne. I never could stand by and see a man swindled. 

Lawnsdale (Comes down, glass champagne in hand, half 
tipsy) — Fine champagne! Ah! Braxton, have you any of the 
red label of— — 

Braxton — That's it. I got it on your recommendation. 

Lawnsdale — Ah! It's the best brand. I can't drink any oilier. 

Penn (Aside, to a by-stander) — King of the Dudes dru.mming 
for a wine house. 

Lawnsdale — Chappie, I've a good thing for you. 

Omncs — What is it? Out with it? etc. 

Lawnsdale— Plav Sunflower in the Suburban. 

Omncs— Oh! O'h I 

(All laugh.) 

Braxton — Well, gentlemen, I'm no moralist, but on the ques- 
tion of horse race gambling, there's nothing in it. 

Downs — You're right there, Mr. Braxton. The noble sport 
has degenerated. 

Braxton — Oh! I like a good horse race. 

Lawnsdale — Say, Downs, deah boy, what are your colors? 

Downs — Jacket red and white bars, cap blue and white stars. 

Omnes — The Stars and Stripes. 

Linson — And you a Southerner ! 

Downs — I'm happy to say, gentlemen, that the South knows 
no other colors to-day. 

Omnes — Good ! Good ! 

Lawnsdale — I'll play }ou a game of billiards, Penn. 

Penn — I don't play. 

Lawnsdale (Quite tipsy) — Well, I'll play you, Braxton. 
Plav. ah! Any man in the house for half a century. 

"Braxton — Does it take you that long to play a game of 
liilliards ? 

Lawnsdale — Xo, no; that's the stakes — fifty. 

Braxton — Fifty cents? 

Lawnsdale — Xo; fifty dollars. 

Braxton — Oh ! Xow you interest me. All right, I'll play 
A'ou. Come, gentlemen, to the billiard room. Come, Tom. 
(Goes up.) 

Linson — I'll join vou presentlv. 
(L.) 



10 

Lawnsdale — Ah! I'll discount you. 
Braxton- — Xo. sir-ree. I always play even. 
(All exit R. U. E., through dining-room, except Linson.) 

(Linson, at window L.. takes oat check, looks at it, th.en 
pockets it.) 

(Music.) 

(Enter Viola R. 2 E. Linson turns half-round and sits.) 

\'iola (Sees him, starts, reels back, and clings to Rochester 
lamp for support, as Linson sees her, jumps up. Staring at him. 
wildly) — It is you, you! 

Linson — Viola ! 

Viola (Rushes to him, clinging to him. Intense excitement) 
— Do not expose me. I will go with you. 

Linson (Sinks into chair L. C. ) — \'iola! 

(Arm around her.) 
(Music stops.) 

\'iola (On her knees, clinging to him excitedly) — I sought 
you everywhere; I advertised, but never a tiding could I get. 
My father died a bankrupt and suicide. The papers teemed with 
accounts of the disgrace. I said — I said — he will read it now — 
he would not desert me — days — weeks — months — I waited — and 
then — and then I said, "He is dead," and I mourned in secret for 
the husband buried in an unknown grave. 

Linson — ^Ah ! you did love me. 

Viola — Love you ? I loved you as a mother loves her child. 
I would have died for you. (Rises — intense reproach) But, 
where were you ? 

Linson — Come close. When I left you at your father's door 
that night 

Viola — Oh, the madness of that night ! 

Linson— We were romantic fools ! I loved you ; I was poor 
and your father 

(Fiercely.) 

Viola — Flush I He is dead. 

Linson — He was to blame. I knew when I was called home 
to England that he'd find a way to separate us, so I determined 
to have you. After we parted I walked the streets till daybreak; 
then boarded the steamier that was to bear me to London and a 
fortune. But there was none. Mv elder brother died a pauper, 
and my heritage was debts. I could not write to you and shatter 
every hope. I went to Australia — no luck. To China — no luck. 
Back here I came three years ago ; sought you — you were gone — 
your father was dead. No one knew of you. I gave up all hope 
of seeing you again. Recently I have had some luck. 

Viola — You are a guest here? 

Lin.son — ^Mr. Braxton is mv friend. I am his broker. I han- 
dle all his stock business. It's a godsend to me. 

Viola (Head bowed) — Fate! Fate! 

Linson (Rises) — But you have not explained your presence. 
You are not a guest. The hostess is not expected till to-morrow. 
Surelv vou are not a servant? 



11 

Viola — Yes, a servant; a woman married to a man she !.loe.- 
not love is a servant. 

Linson — You — do — not — mean ? 

\'iola — 'I do — I do — I am Mrs. Braxton. 

(Sinks in chair R.) 

(Linson sinks in chair L. C.) 

Linson — Good God ! 

(Rises.) 

\'iola (Wringing- her hands) — I was alone — no father — no- 
husband. \Miat it is to be adrift in the world, you know as a 
man. but not as a woman. 

Linson (Quickly) — Well, go on. You met Braxton, where? 

Mola — At San Jose, California. I was a school teacher. He 
proposed marriage. It was an escape from poverty. 

Linson — You do not love him, you say? 

\'iola — I tolerated him. But now — (Throwing her arms 
around him) Ah! 

Linson — Does he know that you were married before? 

\iola — That is known only to us. 

Linson — Has he never spoken to you of me? 

\'iola — Never. We have few confidences. An incompati- 
bility. 

Linson { \\'alking up and down) — \M'iat a catastrophe! Think 
— if I claim you, or it is known, vou stand in the light of a crim- 
inal. My prospects of assured financial success wrecked. Both 
of us outcasts. 

\'iola — What are we going to do? 
( Despairingly. ) 

Linson (Earnestly) — What we can — do you love me? 
(Coming close to her.) 

\'iola — You know 

(Facing him. ) 

Linson (Looking into her eyes) — We'll get rich through him. 
This house is yours — made over in your name by him. He is 
already embarked in a big venture on 'Change. I have his im- 
plicit confidence. You must delude him with caresses, flatter his- 
ambitions, find out his resources. I will instruct you from time 

to time. If 

(Hesitating as if in doubt of her.) 

\'iola — Tom, I love you. 

Linsin (Embraces her) — ^ly wife! 

(Music till curtain.) 

(Braxton laughs oflf stage.) 
Linson — Braxton : go quick. 

(\'iola exits R. 2 E. Linson turns, looks out of window.) 
Braxton (Calls oflf stage) — Tom, Tom! 

(Enters R. U. E.) 

Tom! (Comes C.) Where are you, my boy — anything wrong? 

(Re-enter Mola R. 2 E.) 



12 

Braxton (Sees her; surprise) — Well, by thunder! Where 
in — Well, ha! ha! This is a surprise. Bless your heart, Vi; 
glad to see you. 

(Kisses her.) 

\'iola — We left Frisco a day earlier. 

Braxton (Holding her hands) — And didn't telegraph me. 
Just like you. Well, by — here, Tom. Tom, let me introduce you 
to Mrs. Braxton. A'iola, this is my friend, Mr. Linson. 

(Linson advances cordially. Viola smiles. He takes her 
hand. Braxton very jolly.) 

Curtain. 



13 



ACT II. 

SCENE: A room in Braxton's cottage, Long- Branch. Large 
windows looking out on ocean. 

Discovered : I'^aith Havens painting at easel L. Penn looking 
out door R. 

Eaith — So you don't like Mr. Linson ? 

Penn — Xo. 

Faith — Why? Mr. Braxtun trusts hun. 

Penn — I know. 

Faith — He controls all of Mr. Braxton's stock business. 

Penn — He couldn't control mine. 

Faith — You distrust him ? 

Penn — I think I should be legitimately robbbed. 

Faith — What do you mean ? 

(Curiously.) 

Penn — Well, suppose I had run up a corner on wheat, and 
had used my last resources. A rascally broker having full knowl- 
edge of the situation could quietly step in, play the market against 
me, and your humble servant would be just what he is to-day — 
broke. 

Faith — And you call that brokerage? 

Penn (Smiles) — They say Braxton is running up a corner on 
wheat. 

Faith — And you think that Air. Linson is not to be trusted? 

Penn— W^ell, you've got my opinion of him. Braxton's all 
right ; he's a Californian, I'm a Californian, so are you. I hate 
to see him get the worst of it — confound it ! I wish I had some 
facts so I could talk to him — ma}be I'm wrong; I hope so. I 
guess I'll go down and take a dip. 

(Exit R.) 

(Faith goes to -door R.) 

(Music.) 

(Enter R. L^. E., Linson and Mola. cross back of window C. and 

exit.) 

Faith (Sees it; looks ofif as if she saw something — is shocked. 
Business)— Oh! Oh! 

(Goes up. looks off at window C.) 

(Enter Braxton R.) 

Braxton — Hallo! Alone? What are you doing? 

Faith (At easel) — Oh, nothing much. 

Braxton (Goes to Faith, regarding her work) — That's pretty! 

(She is painting flowers on velvet.) 
Faith — You like it? \'ioln wpnted something from my brush. 
It's a slight toktn of remembrance. 



14 

Braxton — As though we could ever forget you. But you're 
not talking of going away. 

Faith — I've been with you ten weeks to-day. 

Braxton — You're welcome to stay ten years. 

Faith— I shall never forget your kindness. 

Braxton — Now, now 

Faith — It is many years since 1 knew a home. 

Braxton — Feel at home here, don't you? 

Faith — Perfectly ; I feel as though 

Braxton — You were one of the tamily. Our sentiments, ex- 
actly. Vi just loves you — and I — I like you. I like you because 
I like you. You are not like other girls — you're — when do you 
^o to Paris? 

Faith — In September. 

Braxton — That's in two weeks. Do you know, that sort of 
worries me. I can't bear to think of you (Sitting) way off in 
Paris, alone. 

Faith — 1 shall not be alone — I shall have my brushes — my 
paints — my studies 

Braxton — Your studies ! You know enough now ! They 
can't teach you anything. Why, I never thought about paintings 
and art — until you came — the only picture I ever cared for was 
a photograph of my mother. Your paintings are the finest I've 
•€ver seen. 

(Tips over paint-box — tubes fall on floor.) 

Faith (Rises)— Oh, Mr. Braxton! 

Braxton — ^Never mind — don't stop — I'll put them all back 
very carefully. 

(Business, picking them up.) 

Faith — But you don't know 

Braxton — I know I don't, but you can arrange them after- 
ward. Please keep to that — (Meaning her painting) I do like 
to watch you paint. 

Faith — I am afraid you will spoil my work. Such a multi- 
plicity of compliments. 

Braxton — -Xo danger, I guess. (Picking up tubes, putting 
them into box) Think I have them all. There's a little fellow 
tricfl to get away (Picks up one), and here's another. (Same 
business) "Rose." (Unscrews top, smells it) No rose there. 
Ah! It's your witchery makes it blossom. (Squeezes tube. 
Paint runs out over his hand ) Here ! Here ! I didn't know the 
blamed thing was loaded. 

( Shows her his hand all paint.) 

Faith ( Laughs, takes small sponge, puts alcohol on it from 
5mal bottle in box) — Now, Im going to scrub very hard. 

(Scrubs his hand with sponge.) 

Braxton — Scrub away, just as long as you want to. (Busi- 
ness) Ever expect to get married? 

Faith (Surprise; then amused) — Why — of course — when the 
right man asks me. 

Braxton — I know the man. 

Faith — You do? (Laughs and turns to easel) Well, I'm 
sorrv, but I haven't the honor of his acquaintance. 



15 

Braxton — Tom Linson. 

Faith — He ? 

Braxton — The best fellow in the whole world. I never had a 
-Lrother^but if I had he couldn't be closer to me than Tom. Fine 
fellow, Faith ; going- to be a rich man one of these days. 

F'aith — Money doesn't always make happy marriages. 

Braxton — Well, no — not always. 

Faith — Would you have me marry a man I did not love? 

Braxton — Yes, if he loved you. Your heart would soon fol- 
low your hand — (Stops) No, never marry a man you don't 
love. But, Tom — Tom, you know 

Faith — If I were poor, then I should know he married me for 
myself. 

Braxton — You think so. You might be mistaken. Let us 
suppose you were poor ; there comes one who sees the hardships 
you endure. He pities you, he marries you. 

Faith — I should know he did not love me. 

Braxton — No, you wouldn't ; loving him, you would never 
perceive it. Well, after you are married you don't make him 
happy. There's a something wanted, and soon you begin to drift 
apart. You are no longer poor — he no longer pities you. Piqued, 
you treat him with indifiference until at last he comes to regard 
jou simply as a pensioner upon his bank account. 

(This last spoken half in reverie.) 

Faith (Regards him with deep interest). 

Braxton — You, disheartened, become reckless and callous. 
There are quarrels — life goes not well with either of you. (Music, 
with deep intensity) Then the day comes when he meets one 
who rouses in him the strong passion of love. His heart goes 
■out to her at their very first meeting. Her truth — her innocence 
—her nobility of character — are to him like sight to the blind — 
there's the danger. Faith. Be sure that he loves you — sure that 
you love him. There's no curse like a loveless marriag^e. Don't 
let money stand in the way ; but love comes first — always — and 
Tom — you know you care for him — look me in the eye. (Takes 
her hands) Do you call that looking me in the eye? (Indicates 
that she is looking over his left shoulder. Laughs) You know 
you do. Why, you couldn't help loving him any more than he 
could help loving you. (Shows his own love for her in his last 
tones) (Half confused) Here! Where's your hat? (Takes her 
hat from easel, where it has been hanging) Let's take a run down 
to the beach. 

(Exeunt, Faith and liraxton R.) 

(Enter, Viola L. C, followed by Linson. She removes hat.) 

Viola (Music stop) — No one here. (Goes to window) She 
seems to enjoy his society. 

Linson — He doesn't appear to miss vours very much. 

(L.) 

\lola (Turns quick) — You have been paymg her altogether 
too many attentions. 

Linson (Sits L.) — Absurd! Common, ordinary courtesies. 
Can't I speak to a woman without exciting your jealousy? 



IG 

Viola — That is a proof of my love. 

Linson — I've had proofs enough. You'd have .me continually 
sitting- in a corner following you with my eyes. Let up. 
Viola — You don't realize my position. 
Linson — You don't realize mine. 
Viola — What have you to complain of? 

(Bitterly.) 

Linson — l)h, hardly worth mentioning. Only, don't consider 
yourself the martyr, i wish I was as well fixed. You have two 
husbands. I have not even one feminine possession. 

\'iola (Excitedly) — How much further is the end? 

Linson — \'iola! When you are yourself, 1 have something 
to tell you. 

Viola (Coming front of him) — What is it? 

Linson — Sit down. (She does so) Sure }-ou're calm;-' 

Viola- — Yes. 

Linson — lh"axton wants me to marry Faith Havens. 

Viola (Jumps up) — Marrv Faith Havens — marrv her! Gh^ 
ha ! ha ! 

Linson (Nervously) — Easy, will you? 

Viola (Laughs) — Don't you want me to give away tlie bride? 
Ha, ha, ha ! Have you proposed ? 

Linson — Xot yet. But I shall. 

Viola — You'll do nothing of the sort. 

Linson — It's necessary. The game is in my hand — but let 
Braxton suspect us and it's all up. If I propose to her it will dis- 
arm suspicion. 

Viola — But if she accepts? 

Linson — I suppose the engagement couldn't be broken oif 
later? How dull you are? You must curb this foolish jealousy! 

Viola (Sinks on sofa) — (3h. it's all so hard to bear! So hard 
to bear ! 

Linson — It'll all be over in another fortnight. (Taking her 
toward door R. 2 E. ) Then we'll go to England and live. Some 
one is coming. Only trust me — there ! there ! 

(She exits L.) 
Bah ! Em sick of her. 

(Enter, Faith R. Linson advances cordially.) 

Ah ! Miss Havens, Eve been waiting for you. 

Faith — Oh, Air. Linson, I thought you were at the beach. 

Linson — I was, but I came up here to see you. 

Faith — To see me? (X to easel) Well? 

Linson — Miss Havens. I am what the world calls a poor man 
— you are rich — I know how my words might be misconstrued — 
sordid motives attributed — but I ask you — do not misjudge me 
so, Miss Havens. Faith, I love you. 

Faith (Rises excitedly)- — Don't — don't! 

Linson — Em. no fortune hunter. In a short while, a few 
months. Ell be as wealthy as you are. 

Faith '( Change of motion to interest) — You surprise me. 

Linson — To-day Em master of the wheat market. A nod of 
my head — a raise of the finger — and prices fluctuate as 1 wisli. 



17 

Do you know what that means? This: that in less than three 
weeks 1 ll reaHze more than a miUion doUars. 

Faith — And Air. hJraxton 

Linson — Hang" iJraxton ! it's you I'm thinking of — you I 
care for — i wane to come to you with this milHon — and say 

Faith — Wail — wait. It's my ambition to be rich — immensely 
rich — you sax \ on love me ! 

Linson — Yes — yes ! 

Faith — You say that }0u are a comparatively poor man with 
small capital — can make a million in turce weeks — what can 1 not 
win with my fortune? Women speculate on "Change, don't they? 

Linson — Yes, yes ; I will be your broker. 

Faith — Xo, no, that wouldn't do. I don't want that — they 
might find out then, and I don't want them to know. Any'broker 
can act for me. \ ou send me information daily of how the mar- 
ket will stand. 

Linson — You'll keep it a close secret. 

Faith — I promise that, my oath if necessary. Surely you can 
trust the woman you say you love. 

Linson (Takes her hand passionately) — You shall see — Faith, 
if you knew how I loved you. 

(Enter Braxton C. Enter Viola L.) 

JJraxton (Comes down) — -Ha! ha! ha! Of course she knows. 
Tom, you lucky dog. What do you say, mother? Shall we give 
our consent ? Think you could stand Tom for a son-in-law ? I 
guess it's a match. (Goes to them) Faith, I know Tom Linson 
— he's my friend. Tom, her heart's as true as her face is fair. 
You are going together through the forest of this life — like two 
little children, gather all the flowers you can. Keep the color of 
health in your cheeks, the sparkle of joy in your eyes — and you'll 
never wander from the trail that leads to a happy old age. God 
bless you both. 

(Turns away.) 

Braxton — Oh. \'i ! (Opening coat, takes out case, necklace) 
I almost forgot it ; let me put them on. 
(Puts them on \'iola's neck.) 

Viola — Pearls. 

Faith — How beautiful ! 

Braxton (After putting them on) — How's that, Tom? 

Tom — Beauty adorned. 

Viola — I wonder if you will be as indulgent to your wife as 
Mr. Braxton is to his? 

Braxton — It may be the last present I can give for many a 
dav. Hey, Tom? If the market smashes, I tell you, old girl,. 
I'll have to shoulder my axe, and, ha, ha, ha, you'll have to go 
to teaching school. (Laughter outside) FTere they come from 
the water. They'll want a drop to warm them up. 

Viola (To Faith )^Come, dear. 

Faith (Crossing to Mola. Both going up L.) — \'iola ! 
(Linson, Faith and Mola exit R. L^. E.) 

(Enter, Mr. and Mrs. Giles, followed by Lawnsdale.) 
Mrs. Giles — Xorman, vou have killed me with that run up the 
hill. 



18 

Giles — Ah ! Braxton, there you are. In regard to that ex- 
change 

Braxton — Now, now, I bar business to-day. 

(Talk apart. Enter Penn and Alicia.) 

Braxton (To Mrs. G.) — How was the water? 

Mrs. G. — It was delicious, and Mr. Lawnsdale is such a de- 
lightful floater. As graceful as a canoe. 

Lawnsdale — Xow. my dear Mrs. Giles, really. 

Mrs. G. — (Jh, you are ; you know you are. 

Braxton — Now I know you'll all take a nip after your plunge. 
What shall it be, Miss Alicia? 

iMrs. G. — A little sherry, dear. 

Alicia — Yes, a whole lot. 

Braxton — Ha, ha, and yours, Mrs. Giles? 

Mrs. G.— I think 

(Whispers to Braxton.) 

Penn (Aside to Alicia) — 1 shall be out to the party Friday 
night. 

Alicia — Oh, will you ? 

P*enn — You must promise me six dances. 

Alicia — Six ! 

Penn — Well, make it eight. 

Mrs. G. (To Braxton) — And make it light, please. 

Braxton (To Giles) — And now. General 

Giles — Give me a stiff Manhattan cocktail. 

Braxton — J know yours. Penn. (To Dawnsdale) And what 
will his Royal Highness have? 

Lawnsdale — All. mix me a ricky, old chappie. 

Braxton — Plow do you mix it, my boy? 

Lawnsdale — Ah, you take a glass of cracked ice — take two 
limes — express the juice — add a little sugar — a dash of gin and 
a couple of sprays of carbonic water, and there's your ricky. Oh, 
its a summer dream ! 

Braxton — I'll give you the whole four seasons. 

Mrs. G. (To Alicia, aside) — Alicia, you are flirting out- 
rageously with Mr. Penn. 

Alicia — Outrageously, mama ? 

IMrs. G. — Yes. outrageously. 

Alicia — Oh. no, mama — only just plain flirting. 

Braxton (Aloud) — Oh. Mrs. Giles, did you say you'd have 
that whiskey plain or in a cocktail? 

Mrs. G. — Did I say whiskey. Mr. Braxton. Really, you must 

have misunderstood me — I said 

(Going up to him, whispers.) 

r.raxton — Oh, ves. yes. yes ! 

(Exit, followed by Mrs. Giles.) 

Giles (Following) — Oh. ves. ves. yes! 

(Exit.) 

Lawnsdale (To Penn) — I see we arc rivals. 

Penn — Not for a minute. I don't see where you come in at all. 

Lawnsdale — Ah, old chappie. I've stolen a march on you. I 
have the mother's consent. 



19 

Penn — All right, old chap — I have the daughters. 

Lavvnsdale — Ideally, old fellow. You're not giving me a steer, 
are you ? 

Lavvnsdale — You're not giving me a steer, are you? 

Penn — Xo, it's straight. 

Lawnsdaie — \\'ell, there's my hand. Ah. Miss Alicia, ])ermit 
nie to oiler my congratulations. 
(Alicia comes down.) 

Penn — Xo. no, my bo}-. We don't want it to get out just yet. 

Lawnsdaie — All right, old chappie ; I won't publish it. 

Penn (Aside) — 1 haven't asked the girl yet. 

Alicia — What did you say, Mr. Lawnsdaie? 

Lawnsdaie — L ah said, permit me to otTer my congratulations. 

Alicia — For what, Mr. Lawnsdaie? 

Lawnsdaie — Ha. ha ! He's told me all. He's asked me to 
be best man. 

Alicia — Pest man ? 

Lawnsdaie — Yes, at the wedding, you know. 

Alicia- — Xo. I don't know. Whose wedding? 

Lawnsdaie — Wh}-, your wedding. Ah. I had hoped to have 
him for I)est man, don't }'OU know ; but — ah well. 

P)raxton ( Calls ofT stage) — -Lawnsdaie, here's your summer 
•dream. 

Lawnsdaie — Where's that dream? 

( Exit. ) 

Alicia — Wliat have you been telling him? 

Penn — ( )h, nothing much; I onl\- 

Alicia — What did he mean by congratulating me, and talking 
about my wedding? 

I'enn — Well. \ou see, he told me he had }our mother's con- 
sent, and I told him I had yours. 

Alicia — ( )h. }ou did! (Aside) Well, don't you think it 
would have been just as well to have consulted me first? 

Penn — ^Oh, that's all right. I'm going to interview you right 
here. Sit down. 

(They sit. Business. Alicia.) 

Alicia — ^Certainly. What are your qualifications? 

Penn — I love you. 

Alicia — -Oh, I know that ; but we can't live on love, you know 
— we must have a house on Riverside Drive, horses, carriages, 
and servants — you know it's the way Pve always lived. Can you 
give me all this? 

Penn — Well, not on my little fifty a week per. 

Alicia — Then we'll have to wait till }OU can. We can go on 
loving each other just the same. 

Penn — Say, Ally, what's the name of that poem where the 
lovers are parted and wander all over creation and finallx' meet 
in a hospital and die? 

Alicia — You mean Evangeline. Poor Evangeline. 

Penn — I wasn't thinking of her. I was thinking of Gabriel. 

Alicia — Their souls were united in Heaven. 

Penn — Yes. Well, Pd like to be married on earth. 

Alicia^-Is the interview over? 

Penn — Oh, come now. Ally, be serious. You know you love 



20 

me. Your eyes have said "Yes" all day. Won't you say you'll 
have me? 

Alicia (Embraces him) — Of coarse, you goose. 

(Enter Giles L. 3 E.) 

Giles — Well, young lady, are you having a successful day? 
Alicia (Still in Penn's embrace — quietly) — Yes, sir; I'm en- 
joying myself hugely. (Then breaks and nnis to Giles, throws 
arms around his neck) Oh, papa, I'll never leave you! 
(Runs out L. U. E.) 4 

( Penn goes up to L. U. E. ) 
Penn — Oh, papa, I'll see you later. 

(Exit L. U. E.) 

Giles — Well, by George (Laughs) "Sketches by Faith 

Plavens." I wonder what that girl wants to see me about. (Open.s. 
portfolio; examines sketches) People shouldn't leave things ly- 
ing about if they don't want them handled. (Takes out sketch, 
regards it intently) Braxton — not bad — that young lady has tal- 
ent. (Looks at another sketch, then looks on easel) LlnniL 
Braxton again — a favorite subject of the artiste evidently, tlum ! 
(Looks at another sketch) Ah! (At another. (Picks out an- 
other, holds it up) And Braxton again — but I never saw him 
look like that — dejected — the light gone from his face — the very 
picture of despair. 

(Enter, Faith. Giles rises, book in hand.) 

Miss Havens, when did you ever see Mr. Braxton look like this? 

Faith — (Jh, that is what artists call a "fancy,"' an imaginative 
sketch. 

Giles — Your imagination must be far-sighted — looks like a 
prophecy for me. Hum! (Puts down portfolio) Well, what 
can I do for you? 

Faith — You are Mr. Braxton's banker. He's in financial 
troubles. 

Giles (Turns quickly) — How do you know that? 

Faith — Never mind. I want to help him. 

Giles— Explain. 

Faith (Hurriedly) — The bulk of my fortune is in collaterals 
that can be quickly converted into cash, or used as securities. 

Giles— Well ? 

Faith (Comes close to him) — I want to deposit in your bank 
all of these collaterals for you to draw upon. 

Giles — For me to draw upon ? 

Faith — And buy wheat. That would hold the market up,, 
would it not? 

Giles — Market? Wheat? What are you talking about? 

Faith — Wouldn't it help Mr. Braxton's chance on 'Change? 

Giles (Rises, advances to her) — Do I understand that you 
propose to risk 

Faith^My entire fortune, if necessary, to save him. 

Giles — Humph ! Miss Havens, I have always regarded you 
as a sensible young woman — but — your acquaintance with iVIr. 
and Mrs. Braxton has not been of long; duration ? 



'21 

Faith — No. I met \'iola, Mrs. Braxton, last winter at 
Monterey, California. 

Giles — And Mr. Braxton, you have only known him since you 
arrived in New York. 

Faith — Yes. 

Giles — And for the sake of an immature friendship 

Faith — Mr. Giles, my childhood was passed in the wild foot- 
hills of the Sierras. My father was a prospector — a gold hunter. 
Mother and 1 never had a home. We were always moving, mov- 
ing. At last father was killed in a mine ; soon after 1 lost my 
mother. Then I went to live with my Uncle Blood, my father's 
half-brother. He was rich, a bachelor and a woman hater. Years 
before he had loved my mother. Well, he adopted me — brought 
me up in luxury, bi:t never spoke a word of afifection to me. He 
died and left me his fortune. But, oh, ho\v much more T should 
have valued his love in life. Since my mother went, the only 
ones who have ever shown me those tender kindnesses that touch 
the heart — you feel that it is for yourself alone they do it — have 
been Air. and iVIrs. Braxton. 

Giles — Um ! 

Faith — ^'ou recognize I know, 'Sir. Giles, what I am unable 
to convey. I mean the feelings we have when we are surrounded 
by our own. How we could protect them, make any sacrifice to 
secure their happiness, and take pride in their success as though 
it were a part of our own. 

Giles — You have not consulted Mrs. Braxton upon this sub- 
ject? 

Faith — The}- must never know. Will you do me the favor 
to accept my offer and act at once ? 

Giles — As a man of business — as the father of a daughter — I 
must refuse. 

Faith — You turn your back on a woman in distress? 

Giles — I never did. 

Faith — You do so now. For their welfare is mv welfare, 
their danger is mine. 

Giles — ]\[y dear girl, \ou really must not think of it. The 
chances are you'd fail. Tl^nk how ^our uncle struggled to make 
this fortune. What would he say? 

Faith — What is money to the dead? 

Giles — Think of yourself. You'll reduce yourself to poverty; 
for. once you're in the game, you'll go it to your last dollar — I 
can see that. You'll sacrifice all for a man whose egotistical 
ambitions — whose mania for millions — have brought him to this 
pass. He had enough. Why did he not stop? No. he's a 
mountebank. 

Faith — I thought you were his friend — has he anv? He is 
the noblest, truest gentleman I ever knew. 

Giles — If Mr. Braxton were not a married man now, I should 
say you had fallen in love with him. 
(Faith shrinks.) 

Giles — Pardon me ! I spoke a thought that vanished as it 
came. You think I am not a friend to Braxton. I like him — as 
a neighbor and as a man — 1mt business and friendship make 
a bad co-partnership. I know how -^'ou feel, but you must not 
go into this mad venture, r.raxton n'ay weather it. So let that 



22 

little head of yours stop all its planning — you came to the right 
one when you came to me. You'll follow my advice, won't you? 
(Faith slowly shakes her head.) 
Giles (Starts to go)^ — ^Oh, well; before }ou move, think it 
over. (Goes up. Comes to her) If you ever need a home, come 
•.o mine. 

(Exit R. door.) « 

Faith — I'll see Ned Penn. He'll tell me what to do. We 
must begin to-morrow. (Picks up fortfolio) If he were not 

a married man, I should say you had fallen in 

(Shows dawn of idea of her love for Braxton — is over- 
awed by it and exits R. 2 E.) 
(Downs at door R., knocks. Enter Servant L., goes to door.) 

(Downs enters L.) 

Downs — Does Mr. Braxton live heah? 

Servant — Yes, sir. Will you walk in ? 
Downs (Enter R.) — Ah! Please inform him that Mr. Downs 
would like to see him on a matter of business. 

Servant — Yes, sir. (Goes up to L. 3 E., stops) Did you 
say "Downs"? 

Downs — Mistah Downs of Kentucky. 

(Exit Servant L. 3 E.) 

Fine place! There's no use denyin', these Northern folks know 
how to live. Winter in the city — summer by the sea. They've 
got the best of it, sure enough. 

Braxton (Off L. 3 E., loud) Where's that jug of old blue- 
grass whiskey? 

Downs — I ain't forgotten, I see. 
(Smiles.) 

(Enter Braxton, jug and glasses.) , , 

Braxton — Downs, my boy, glad to see you. 
(Shake hands.) 
(Music stop.) 

Downs — Right glad to see you, Mr. Braxton. 

Braxton^You're not looking bright; been sick? 

Downs — Little off my feet, sah. 

Braxton (Pushing over jug and glass) — Have an appetizer. 
You prefer it straight, I know. 

Downs — Every time, sah. No mixed drinks for me. 

Braxton — Help yourself. 

Downs (Pours out glass of whiskey) — That's the real blue 
grass, sah. Hospitality in every drop. 

Braxton (Same business) — Drink hearty, Downs. 
Downs — My best wishes, Mr. Braxton. (Drinks) Smooth 
as oil. 

r>raxton — Well, how goes things? How's your horse. Mon- 
grel? 

Downs — Fine as silk, sah ! 

Braxton — ^And the big race getting closer everv^ day. But 
VQU don't look happy. Ain't homesick? 

Downs — Yes. Reckon T am homesick. 



23 

Braxton — Have another drink. (Business, pours out glass) 
Cheer up, old boy— think of pulling off the great Suburban, and 
you and Mongrel going back home in flying colors. 

Downs — We'll never go back together, sah ; fur, you see, I've 
got to sell Mongrel. 

Braxton — Got to sell him ? 

Downs — I must, to save the old home. A mortgage fore- 
closure, sah ; they promised to hold off till the first of July, but 
they've come down on us and I've got to raise the money in three 
days. 

Braxton — What's the amount? ' 

Downs — Three thousand dollars. Reckon the old house isn't 
worth that much, but it's home. Father was born in it; I was 
born in it, too. Why, sir, when I first looked out the window, 
there was never a fence to meet my eye. After the war, they 
put a fence around a mile away from the house, and year by year 
that fence has been closing in nearer and nearer. You see. sah,. 
father had more honor than business capacity. Times were hard ,' 
till three years ago all our stock went under the hammer. All, 
exceptin' one colt that no one would buy. They said he was a 
mongrel, and I named him that so's in the future they'd know 
and remember him ; for it was a lie. He's the true Bonnie Scot- 
land blood. Well, sah, the old place was mortgaged next — and 
there it is with the fence in ten feet of the veranda, going like 
the rest. 

Braxton — And Mongrel has gone to save it from the sheriff, 
eh? Not as you expected, by winning the Suburban stakes, but 
by changing owners. 

Downs — You've hit it, sah, sure enough! ^Ir. Braxton, I'm 
a turfman. Hosses have been my life. Mongrel is all I have; 
I raised him from a colt. I love him, sah, and I can't bear to 
see him go into hands that'll run his legs off, and then when he's 
broken down put him to jumping the sticks till he breaks his 
neck. Xo. sah : -Mongrel has been the propert}- of a gentleman, 
and I allow to sell him to a gentleman. He stands a show for the 
big race, sah, and I'll stay here and train him just the same, sah. 
Mr. Braxton, I know you're not on the track, l^at. sah. I want 
you to buy mv ho'-s. 

Braxton (Business) — Have another drink. (Downs pours 
out glass full) How niuch did vou siy? 

Downs — Three thousand doll-^r.-^. 

Braxton ( Rises, goes to desk, during following opens desk 
and writes check) — Where a''e you stopping now? 

Downs — At Conev Island. 

Braxton — Near the track, eh ? 

Downs — Yes, sah; I sort o' live with Mongrel. 

Braxton — Run down and see us occasionally. Mrs. Braxton 
is going to gnve a little party next wee'-. I'll let vou know. We'll 
expect you, sure. (Brings down check, to Downs) There you 
are, my boy; pav to the order of Foxhall Downs. It is all right? 

Downs (Looks at check) — Hardh', .'^ah ; you made it out for 
$3,500 — ^I onlv said $3,000. 

Braxton (Looks at check) — So I did. Well, let it go: he's 
worth it. WHiv don't vou drink ^ 

Downs — \\'aiting for you. sah. 



24 

Braxton (Pours out glass for himself) — Well, here's to Mon- 
grel. 

(Both drink.) 

Downs — You have taken a weight off my mind. Now, sah, 
when shall I deliver Mongrel to you? 

Braxton — Why, Downs, my boy, I don't want your hoss. 

Downs (Rises) — But, sah? 

Braxton — Run him, my boy. If you strike luck you can pay 
me back. 

Downs— I didn't come to presume on your friendship, ATr. 
Braxton. I came to sell Mongrel. 

Braxton- — Well, sir, you'll have to go elsewhere, you can't 
sell him here. 

Downs — Then, sah 

(Offers check.) 

Braxton (Laughingly) — Ha, ha, ha! Your Southern pride, 
fine thing. I like you for it. Let this be a debt of honor. 
(Music till curtain.) 

Downs — A debt of honor? 

Braxton — To please me — for the old folks 

Downs (Business, puts check in pocket. Takes out watch) — 
My train is due. I must hurry. Good-bye, Mr. Braxton. 
(Going to door.) 

Braxton (Follows him) — Good-bye. 

Downs (Turns at door, grasps Braxton's hand) — There's a 
gray-haired couple down in Kentucky that thanks you. 

Curtain. 



25 

ACT III. 
:SCEXE: Same as Act II. 
TLAIE: Xig-ht. 

A l:i\vn fete is in progress. 
Discovered: Alicia, Venn, Cjiles, ]\Irs. Giles, Lawnsdale and 
guesLs. Lawnsdale L., surrounded jjy ladies. 

Alicia — We're all going over to Sheepshead to the races to- 
morrow, and were an going to he:. Aow, Air. i^awnsdale, you 
must give us a tip on the Suburban. 

Lawnsdale — Ah, you won't give it away? 

Omnes — Xo, no ! 

Lawaisdale — Ah, play Sunflower. Great horse, Sunflower. 

Penn (Comes down) — Yes, the last time I w^as at the track I 
played him — ladies, I plunged on Sunflower. It w-as a hot race. 
When they got off. Sunflower was 

Giles — Last ! 
(All laugh.) 

Airs. Giles^ — Xorman ! 

Alicia — Papa ! 

Penn — Yes, sir, Sunflower was last, and I shut my eyes and 
saw m}- good money melting like a snowball in 

Giles (Sees Hood, who enters) — 'Kello, Hood. 
( Goes to him. ) 

Penn — But wdien I opened them again, there was Sunflower 
coming along like 

Giles (To Hood) — The devil! 

Mrs. Giles — Xorman! 

Giles — Beg pardon ! 
(Exit w-ith Hood.) 

F\Min — Sunflower was coming along like a streak of light 

Lawnsdale — Gweat in the stwetch. Gw^eat in the stwetch. 

Penn — He just flashed past every horse in the race as if they 
were cows. 

Lawnsdale — He's a deah ! He's a deah ! (Deer) 

Mrs. G. — ^How lovely ! 

Penn — 'Ah ha!" says I, "Penn. here's the easiest money you 
ever made in your life," and I just stood there in breathless 
amazement and watched them finish. 

Mrs. (j. — Oh, dear, how positively delightfully exciting. 

Lawnsdale — How much did you win, deah boy? 

Penn — Xothing ! 

Omnes — Xothing ! 

Penn — Sunflower stopped before the finish, 
((^mnes laugh and exit.) 

Alicia (Going out with Penn) — Mr. Lawnsdale, I don't think 
we'll play Sunflower. 
(Laughs.) 

Mrs. Giles — Shall we stroll, Mr. Lawnsdale? 

Lawnsdale — Aw! chawmed, Airs. Giles, chawmed ! 

(Business. Eaith enters, meets' Penn. Alicia goes out 
with Hood. Penn and Faith talk as they go.) 

Mrs. Giles — To the pavilion, please. 



2(J 

Lawnsdalc — CI av, ir.Lcl ! Cbawmcd ! 

(ExennL Lir.scn strolls in, meets Faith, who bows coldly and 
passes out with Penn. ) 

Linson (Looks after them. Braxton enters, looks at Linson. 
turns to ice cooior, takes glass, makes noise. Linson turns) — Ah^ 
at last! We h^vz wondered. 

( Comes down.) 

Braxton (Coldly) — I missed the early boat. 

Linson — Uu.te a tumble the market took this morning. That's 
the reason I came down at noon to see you. 

Braxton — And left everything in the hands of .the enemy. 

Linson — What could I do? How did wheat close? 

Braxton — Ninety — ^strong. 

Linson — Tr.e devil, }'ou say. Why, she boomed right up again. 
Did you make a raise? 

Braxton — Raise? (Harsh laugh) Xo, sir; my unknown 
friend again. 

Linson — Who can it be? 

Braxton — Give it up. It's a mighty strange afifair. Third 
time it's happened. The very moment I am cramped for funds 
somebody runs the price down, and then just as unexpectedly 
somebody sends it up again. Well, here's to my mysterious 

friend. (Drinks) And if there's a secret enemy, I'll 

(Crushes glass in hand.) 

Linson — Why excite yourself? We're safe — we'll win. 

Braxton — Think so? (Sneer) Blowed if I see it. That 
great gold mine of yours — humph ! The syndicate's expert re- 
ports that the ore assays a dollar per ton. 

Linson — A trick to purchase it cheap. 

Braxton — They refuse it at any price. 

Linson — Bluffing! (Snaps fingers) That mine is worth 
double the amount you paid for it. 

Braxton — ^Want it? Llalf the figure'll buy it. 

Linson — I'd take you cjuick — if I had the money. 

Braxton — ^Money ! Damn the word ! 
(Bitterly.) 

Linson — Oh, now, come, come, you'll weather it. 

Braxton — Wlio started the break this morning? 

Linson (Slowly) — I think it was Hood. 

Braxton — ^Any idea who he was acting for? 

Linson — I did my best to ascertain. No. 

Braxton — You lie ! 

Linson — Braxton ! 

Braxton — ^He was acting for you. Two hundred thousand 
bushels of wheat were thrown upon the market at its opening. 
Hood did it, acting under your orders. You secretly speculated 
against me. 

Linson (Rises) — I deny it; it's a slander. Well, by George! 
this beats me. 
(Sits.) 

Braxton — No, it beats me. Tom, I guess I'll have a change 
of deal. Mv transactions must be turned over to some other 



27 

broker. I didn't think you'd do it, Tom ; I thought our friend- 
ship would keep away the temptation — curse the money ! 

Linson (Rises, facing Braxton) — Braxton, do you insist upon 
insulting me, aspersing my integrity ? 

Braxton (Rises, leans over table) — To thunder with your in- 
tegrity. What I am after is to get out of this scrape with a whole 
skin. My ship is nearing the breakers — I want a pilot, not a 
w recker. 

Linson — That's sufficient, Mr. Braxton. I'm ready at any 
time to make a transfer. I shall of course expect a settlement 
in full. 

Braxton (Ugly) — Expect what? 

Linson (Friendly tone) — Probably you do not know that the 
commissions due me during the past five weeks I have not drawn, 
but applied them to keep up your margins. I did it to hold you 
over — until 

Braxton — -I got a loan on the mine. Ver}- kind of you. How 
much do I owe you ? 

Linson — In the neighborhood of thirteen thousaid dollars. 

Braxton — When do you want your money? 

Linson — \\>11 — ( Shrugs shoulders ) within a day or so. 

Eiraxton — This is Friday. Do vou want it Monda^'? Yes 



or no 



Linson (Pause. Business-like tone) — Upon considering it,. 
yes. 

Braxton ( Repeating) — Yes. Tom Linson, I would willingly 
give every cent of the fortune I have staked on 'Change rather 
than have heard that little word "yes." Do you know what it 
did? It tore away a mask; a mask so deftly, devilishly designevi 
that one believed it animate, glowing with truth, honor and loy- 
alty. The face of a dear friend — you — well, you are no!: he r 
you're a clever rascal, and I am a damn fool. 

Linson (Half laughs) — Well, it's not to emphasize your last 
expression — only a suggestion for you to consider. X^o broker 
will accept the responsibility of such a load without a pretty heav\- 
additional margin is put up. Some twenty or thirty thousand 
dollars — a neat sum to raise at short notice just about now, eh ? 

Braxton — You just attend to your own concerns. You'll 
have your money Monday noon sharp, and see to it that you have 
my transactions, every one. in shape for transfer; don't dare to 
trifle with any of them. If that account is not straight, some- 
body'll be hurt. You think you've- got m.e lassoed. Keep think- 
ing so. Go sell your information to others. I read vour j)urpose 
— do it — and as sure as daylight I'll break you. I'll break them. 
You'll learn then how a woodsman makes a clearing. That's all. 
(Linson starts to go towards R. Enter A'iola through 
window C.) 

A'iola (To Linson, not seeing Braxton) — Ah, I have found 
you. This is our waltz. 

(About to take his .arm.) 

Braxton — Pardon me. Viola. 

Viola — Oh. when did you come? \\'hy — what's the matter? 

Braxton — Nothing that you have done, my dear. We will 
excuse Mr. Linson. (Exit Linson R.) 

Policy was all that kept me from strangling him. 



28 

\'iola (Alarmed) — What has liappened? Speak! What has 
he (lone .■' 

JJraxton — Done? By Jove, 1 can hardly believe it. It's a 
clean knock-out. That gold mine he roped me mto buying was 
a perfect swindle, and to-day i caught nim secretly playing the 
market against me. 

V iola — 1 can t believe it. 

Braxton — Uli, he's admitted it. (Viola clasps hands) And 
I'm gouig to get my business out ot his hands right away, or 
Im lost, tie knows I'm l.ard up and he's taking advantage of 
it. He s using the n.oney he be.it me out of oh that mine. Think 
of it, my own money to fight me on 'Change ! He'd steal the 
roof from over our heads. \ i, we must beat him. 

\'iola — Uh, let us not talk business to-night. Hurry, dress 
and join our guests. They are all wondering at your absence. 

hraxton (.-istonished) — A i, you haven't got your eyes open 
yet. You don't see where we stand, ft's rough, I know, but 
you've got to bear it. Every inch of property 1 own, every penny 
I have in the world, is lost if we delay. I'm deep in the game, 
but you're my right bower. You'll pull me out. A hundred 
thousand more will make them so sick that they'll jump the ring 
.and the stakes are mine. \'i, we must raise it on the house in 
town. 

\lola — And lose it with the rest — never. 

Braxton — We won't lose it. Confound it ; somehow you don't 
seem to realize the devilish strait we're in. 

Viola (Sarcastically) — How should I? You've always kept 
your wife so well informed, bestowed so many confidences 

Braxton — I know, Vi, I haven't been the most loving of hus- 
bands ; and you — well I think it's pretty nearly even up; you see 
you're high strung, and I'm mulish and reckless and not as soft 
spoken as I should be, and we've chopped on opposite sides of 
the trunk — each on his own hook, never looking at the other's 
work, or speaking words of caution. The tree's a-swaying now 
— it may fall and crush us both. There's a common danger — 
there's a common work. Let's forget our faults ; let's be part- 
ners — ^^man and wife. 

Viola — To consummate this delightful compact the wife must 
sacrifice her home. 

Braxton — ^Why, Vi, I gave 3^ou that home. 

Viola — And now you want to gamble it away. 

Braxton — Speculation has made me. Everything you have 
was got by it. 

Viola — Only to be lost again. 

Braxton — If I failed, the house would have to go. 

Viola — In that event it would save me from want. 

Braxton (Pause) — How about me? 

Viola — I suppose you'll go back to chopping wood. 

Braxton — By Jove, womsn, you are going too far. Is this 
how you repay me for the luxuries I have heaped upon you 
standing before me ablaze with jewels, sneering at my distre-s? 
Whv did you marry me? ^ 

\'iola — For vour monev. 

Braxton — Monev — mcnev. 



'29 

\'iola — Surely, you never entertained the delusion that any 
other motive niduced me to bear your name? 

Braxton ( Calml_\- — sadly)— I wonder, Viola, is there any 
trutn in this world.-' iiut you are my wife — marriage is a sacred 
tie, no matter how innocent or depraved we may be 

\ lo.a — A knot sometimes tied so tightly that it wounds those 
whom it unites, liraxton, what ever caused you to select me as. 
your wife.-' 

iJrax.on — i saw a brilliant young woman struggling with 
povercy — cue who had been hiougl.t up in luxury. 1 pitied — 
admired her. i tl ought we wouiCl iind happiness together. 

\ ioia — ion ne\er loved nic — ours has never been a true 
marriage. 

t)r:ix:on — Xo, it has always been a question of dollars and 
cents with yuu. At the very beginning you sold yourself. 

\ iola — \\ ell, you bought me. 

Braxton — Yes ; 1 bought you. I was ignorant. 

Viola — And I was poor — a drudge of a school marm, ready 
to become the wife of any man of w'ealth. 

Braxton — The worst drudgery would have been far better 
than the worthless wasted years w^e have lived together. Better 
for you, better for me ; but bitter w'ords won't mend matters. God 
knows we've had enough. 

Viola — Too many! Faith Havens is very rich, why don't vou 
go to her? 

Braxton — By heaven, Madam, if she were in your shoes I 
wouldn't have to stand begging here. 

Viola — Ah, indeed ! 

Braxton — Once for all, will you save me? 

\'iola — Sell my home? No — not if it separates us. 

Braxton (Fiercely) — Then, by the Eternal 

Viola — Don't make a scene. 
(Crosses coldly, exits C.) 

Braxton — Stumped, by Thunder, stumped ! God, has t!ie 
world turned against me? 

(Enter Downs, R.) 

Downs — Good evening, Air. Braxton. 

Braxton — That you, Downs? Come in, come in, sit down. 

Downs — Thank vou, sah ! Right pleasant evening. 
(Sits.) 

Braxton (Abruptly) — Downs, suppose you gave your wife a 
hundred thousand dollars, and got into a tight scrape and needed 
the monev to get out and she wouldn't give it up. \\'hat would 
you do? 

Downs — Cut her damn haid off. 

Braxton (Sits) — I only suppose a case. 

Downs — I only suppose vou do, sah. 

Braxton (Intensely) — What if a man played you the Judas 
trick ? 

Downs — He'd never have a chance to go out and hang him- 
self, sah. I would anticipate him. 
( Bus. ) 

Braxton — I mention no names. 

Downs — I'm inc|uiring none. sah. 



30 

Lraxton — Downs, do ycu lemember that dinner at my home 
in ti.e citv nst ^5prmgr 

i>o\\ns — A ever \viil forget that day, sah. 

ijraxton — i did some pretty tall bragging that day, huh ! I 
beheve i eompaied myseii to a wrestler who was to throw the 
world. 

Downs — I trust that you've held your lock, sah! 

liJraxton — ^Aly boy, a tricky scoundrel trij^pecl me up on Wall 
Street. 

Downs — 'Hasn't got you down on your back, has he? 

Braxton — Well, i'm under. 

Downs — Sorry to hear that, sah. I'm sincere, you must know 
that for sure, Mr. Braxton. You've been more'n a friend to me, 
that's why I'm here to-night. Not to join the festive throng, but 
to see you, sah, on a mattah of the greatest importance. 1 come^ 
sah, to give you a tip on that boss race to-morrow. 

Braxton (Musingly) — Oh, yes; you run the Suburban to- 
morrow. 

Downs — The biggest race of the season, sah, and my boss, 
Mongrel, is going to win it. It's certain sure as to-morrow comes. 
(Intensely.) This morning Mongrel beat the mile and a quarter 
record by two seconds. There's Bonnie Scotland blood in that 
Claybank colt and he was born with lightning in his heels. 

Braxton — Downs, your enthusiasm is catching. How much 
money can be won on a horse race — ten thousand dollars? 

Downs — A trifle. 

Braxton — Twenty thousand ? 

Downs — On a race like the Suburban, fifty — yes, a hundred 
thousand. 

Braxton — A hundred thousand. That would do it. With a 
hundred thousand. Tom Linson, I could meet you Monday. How 
nuich money will I have to put up to win that amount ? 

Downs — On Mongrel? He's a long shot — he'll be selling to- 
morrow at 30 and 40 to i. 

Braxton — Would five thousand do it? 

Dow'-ns — Just about hit it, sah. 

Braxton — Come out here, old nest egg. (Brings out old 
money belt.) They've swept in everything on the board. They 
think they've cleaned me out. but we're not playing table stakes, 
and I'm still in the game. (Lays belt on table — open.) Til play 
the race, and I'll back Mongrel. 

Downs — By Gad, sah. you shall have a run for your money. 

Braxton — I know it. (Half aside.) I'm still in the game. 

Downs— ^And now to get your money up right! New York 
City is fidl of pool rooms — fifty or sixty — at least. That news- 
paper friend o' yours could tell you all about 'em 

Braxton — Penn — yes. Til see him. 

Downs — The trick is to place a fair-sized bet in every one of 
'em — then when the odds begin to drop make a plunge. I could 
get in a thousand to good advantage in the betting ring at the 
track, that is. s^h, if _\-ou are disposed to trust me 

Braxton — There you are. 
(Gives him money.) 

Dowms — Mr. Braxton, your confidence does me honah. Bv 
Gad, sah ! 

(Grasps his hand.) 



31 

Braxton — I'm not afraid of you, Downs. If that horse wins 
to-morrow, you're going to pull me out of a heap of trouble. 

Downs — I reckon as how you've got a lead-pipe cinch, sah. 
You cast your bread on the waters, sah — may it come back in tlie 
best time on record. Good night, Air. Braxton. 

Braxton — Good night, old fellow. 

Downs (Goes to door R. — returns.) — The stakes arc worth 
about thirty-five thousand dollars. Command me to the full 
amount after the race — good night. (Goes, and returns.) You 
just spoke, sah. 'bout somebody playin" }ou the Judas trick. If 
you'll kindly point out the gentleman to me I'd like to take a pop 
at him — after the race. Good night. 

(Exit R.) 

Braxton (Solus) — Good night. One door closes, another 
opens. What if it is a horse race. It's all gambling an\-way. 
There's a chance yet. I'm still in the game. 

(Bus. About to pocket money-belt. Stops; buckles it 
around him. ) 
No! It's safer here. Tom Linson, I'll meet you Monday — Curse 
them both — both ! What if — no. no, not that, not that — and yet 
— well, I wouldn't put it past them. 

(Enter Faith R. U. E.) 

Faith — \'iola said you were here, and wanted to see me. 

Braxton — She did? Well, she's right. I do want to see \ou. 

Faith — What is it ? 

Braxton — I've got something to tell you. It's .going to make 
you unhappy — but it's tor your good, and I've got to do ii. 

Faith — [ am sure, Air. Braxton, you would say nothing to me 
diat I shoidd not hear. 

Braxton — You're right there. Faith Flavens, I once placed 
your hand in that of — a man — and blessed you both. I thought 
heW make you happy. I took him for a square man. But he's a 
scoundrel, unworthy the trust of man or the love of womai. 

Faith ( Impulsively) — I m so glad, so glad — 1 

(Cliecks herself.) 

liraxti- n ( Pause) — Glad ? 

Faith — Why — yes, yes — J — I — let me go, Mr. Braxton, you 
have said sufficient 



(Starts to go.) 

Braxton — Wait a minute, wait. You said "glad" — you be- 
ivilder me. It's a night of revelations, but this beats them all. 
I tell you that the man you are engaged to marry is a scoundrel 
and you are delighted to hear it — Wliat 

Faith — I cannot explain — do not ask me — 1 know m\- words 
must seem strange, but it is enough that 1 believe you — that i 
despise him — I will go away 

Braxton — You despise him. Then you never loved him — why 
did vou accept him? 

Paith — Because — I thought — I could get his confidence — get 
proofs. I could not speak "without proofs — Oh! You do noi 
understand 

Braxton — I understand enough to ask for more. 



3.2 

Faith — What more can I teh }ou? I believed he was betray- 
ing you — in your business relations. 

Braxton — And you had no other motive? 
Faith — What other motive could I have? 

Braxton — Your question is no answer. There's something; 
else. 

Faith — It is cruel to detain me. 

Braxton — Was it to save her? She is your friend — l)ut the 
truth, the truth — was it to save her? 

(Viola and Guests at window R. U. E.) 
Faith (Crosses him) — I will not answer vou. 
Braxton — You must.. Faith, you must. 

(Detains her, putting arms around her. Enter \''iola R. 
U. E. Guests follow. ) 
\'iola — ^So! In his arms again. And not the first time. How 

long I have sufifered 

Faith — \'iola ! > 
Viola — Suffered in silence. (To Faith.) But you have be- 
trayed yourselves ; at last I can speak — the world shall know 

Faith — Viola, are you mad? 

Viola — Mad? Is it not enough to drive a woman mad? 

Faith — Viola ! 

A'iola — Don't touch me ! 

Faith — In the name of our love 

Viola — Your love — ha, ha ! Go ! 

Faith (Turns to Braxton) — You, you, tell them that it is all a 
mistake — a hideous mistake. Save me, speak — speak — tell them 
the truth. 

(Braxton has been seated eving Viola. At Faith's last line, 
Viola starts to go up to Guests. Is intercepted by Brax- 
ton — Action all very slow.) 
Braxton (Hoarsely)— You — Jezebel! I see through and 
through you. You trump up this lie to mask your own shame — 
False wife, false friend — those roses cover a heart that never 
knew a pulse of pure affection. Damn you, damn you, damn 
you ! 

(Tears them off. Viola shrieks, terrified, screams. 
Fiercely. ) 

Slander this innocent girl, will you? Take it back, or I'll 

(Threatening her.) 
Viola (Crouches in terror) — Tom! Tom! 
Braxton — "Tom — Tom" — call the coward's name — where is 
he? 

(Enter Linson through door R., unconscious of what is hap- 
pening. ) 
Viola — Tom, save me, save me from that man ! 
(Throwing herself into Linson's arms.) 

Braxton — You see, you see 

(Pointing to Viola and Linson.) 
There is the truth. 

TABLEAU. 

CURTAIN. 



33 

ACT IV. 

Tableau I. 

SCENE : A view of the paddock at Sheepshead Bay on Sub- 
urban Day. 

Band off stage R. playing in distance as curtain rises. 
Various racing characters discovered. A jockey mounts 
and rides out of the paddock — Enter Lawnsdale and Ike 
Ivory, a jockey. Talking earnestly — Lawnsdale as if giv- 
ing orders. 

Enter Linson, hurriedly — excited manner. 
Lawnsdale (Turns, sees him) — Hello, Tom! What's up, dear 
boy? 

Linson (Hands telegram to Lawnsdale) — Read that. 
Lawnsdale reads : — "Braxton is playing Mongrel heavily in 
all the pool rooms. Are you throwing us? Hood." 

Linson — I gave Hood the tip on Pompadour — I mean Sun- 
flower. 

Lawnsdale — Oh, Hood needn't worry. 

Linson — No? Well, I've been worrying. Mongrel must 
stand some show\ Downs has given Braxton the tip. I'll bet you 
if Mongrel wins Braxton stands to pull down a pile. 

Lawnsdale — But he can't come first, my dear fellow ; he ish't 
in Sunflower's class. 

Linson — I'm taking no chances. Mongrel's rider is doped 
now. He'll go round the track in a dream. 

Lawnsdale — Long head, Tom — Long head ! 
(Exeunt to stable L.) 

(Enter Downs — iHands full of betting tickets.) 
Downs — ^Red hot scrimmage in that crowd, but I got my 
money up, good. 

(Enter Jones — a Jockey — dressed in Downs' colors — Red, white 

and blue.) 
Downs — Hello, boy! Been waitin' for me? We'll go over to 
the stables and fetch Mongrel now. 
(Jones staggers.) 
Jones — All right, Mistah Downs. Oh, my head ! 
Downs — What's the matter with you? 
Jones — My head's buzzin' like a merry-go-round. 
Downs — Been drinkin' ? 
Jones — I'se doped — I'se poisoned. 
Downs (Grasping him closely) — Come here! Gin! 
Jones — Dey doctered it, Massa Downs ; 'fore heaven, dey did. 
Downs — They doctored it? Who doctored it? Speak up? 
Jones — Dat — dat gentlemen dere, 

(Points off.) 
Downs — Linson ! They're trying to foul me ! 
Jones— I'll ride, Mistah Downs ! I'll ride. 
Downs — You infernal black idiot! Have you weighed in? 
Jones — Not yet, sah. 

Downs — Thank your lucky stars ! Off with that jacket ! 
(Business stripping jacket off Jones.) 
Give me that cap ! 
(Takes cap.) 



34 

Jones (Bewildered) — What you doing-/ Marsa Downs? 
(Falls, sitting on ground.) 

Downs (Pulls off boot) — No! (Throws it down). I can't 
go the boot. (Goes up to weighing stand). Take down Jones 
off'n that board. 

Clerk — Who shall I put in, sir? 

Downs — Put in "Downs." 

(Exit L.) 

Clerk — Jones has been at it again. 

Weigher — Drunk as a fiddler. 

Clerk — Here comes Sunflower. 

Weigher — A good looker, but he hasn't got the sand. 

(Enter trainer leading in Sunflower — followed close up by 

Lawnsdale.) 
(Lawnsdale giving directions.) 
(Enter Linson and Ike Ivory in close conversation.) 
Linsou; — Remember, Ike, I've got 25,000 up on Pompadour. 
Ivory — Oh, Sunflower can't do a mile and a quarter. 
Linson — He musn't. 
Ivory — ^He shan't. 
Linson — Pocket him if you can. 

(A jockey on horse passes at back.) 
Linson — There goes Pompadour. 

(Cheers off stage.) 
Lawnsdale — No, that's Mongrel. 

Linson — The colors are similar ; but that's Pompadour, the 
favorite. He's carrying a load of money to-day. 

(Ike Ivory mounts Sunflower and rides off.) 
Lawnsdale — They're all out but Mongrel. 
Linson — Come, on — he doesn't count. 

(Exeunt Linson and Lawnsdale.) 
(Enter Downs in jockey suit, leading on Mongrel. Goes to weigh 
in. Some one advances towards Mongrel.) 
Downs — Hands off. He'll stand alone. (To a little stable 
boy) : Keep clear of his heels, nigger — he'll kick you to kingdom 
come. Here, boy, here's a dollar; go git me a glass of corn 
whiskey and keep the change. 
(Boy runs out.) 

(Bugle call for race, heard off stage.) 
Downs (To Mongrel) — Hear that. Mongrel, old boy — that's 
the last bugle call — call to the battle. D'ye heah? 'Course you 
do. Fight 'em to the last inch, and I'll be with you. Run their 
hearts out. Over in the big city there's a man I loved has staked 
his last dollar on ye, and down in the blue grass the old folks are 
prayin' for you. Run, boy — run their hearts out. 
(Jumps into the saddle.) 
Enter Boy (With glass of whiskey — Heah's your corn juice, 
mistah. 

Downs — Keep it till I come back — win or lose, I'll want it 
then. 

(Rides off.) 

(Stage darkness.) 

(Change of scene — disclosing interior of horse-race, pool room 

in New York City.) 



35 

ACT IV. 
Tableau II. 

SCENE : For set see scene plot. Horse-race pool room in N.Y. 
Discovered : At rise, Characters betting, talking, etc. 

Marker — Hurry up, gentlemen ; they'll be at the post in a 
minute. 

(Bus. of making bets.) 
First Bettor — ^Give me ten on Early Rose. 
Seller — Fifty to ten on Early Rose. 

(Bus.) 
Second Bettor — Two hundred on Pompadour. 
Seller — Three hundred and twenty to two hundred an Pom- 
padour. 
(Bus.) 

Third Bettor — One hundred on Pompadour. 
Seller — One hundred and sixty to one hundred Pompadour. 
Box Caller— Say, Bill, make Pompadour six to five. 
Marker (Does so) — Gentlemen, make your bets — you only 
have the great Suburban once a year. 

Old Sport (To spectator) — Pompadour wont be "one, two. 
three." 

Spectator — Who'll win it? 

Old Sport — Why, Long Slipper — he'll win it in a walk. What 
are you playing? 

Spectator — Pompadour. 

Old Sport- — Well, you want to hedge quick. I'd bet a million 
dollars Long Slipper wins it. 
Tout (Passing) — ^Ha, ha, ha! 
Old Sport — Never mind, I had it once. 
Spectator (To Marker) — Say, Bill, who's going to get it? 
Marker — Early Rose stands the best show. 
Spectator — W'ould vou back it? 
Marker — Would I ? Why, it's like finding it. 
Spectator (Goes to window) — ^Give me one hundred on Early 
Rose. 

Seller — Four hundred to one hundred Earlv Rose. 
(Bus.) 

(During this Marker calls boy and gives him money. Boy 
goes to window buys ticket.) 
Seller — Forty-four to twentv. Pompadour. 

(Bus.) 
Box Caller — Say, Bill, what's the price of Prairie? 
Marker — Twelve to one. 
Box Caller — Make it fifteen. 
Marker — All right. Fifteen to one, Prairie. 

(Bov brings Marker ticket.) 
Tout (to young fellow)— Say, mister, who yer playing? 
Young Fellow— I haven't done anything yet. 
Tout — I'll give you the tip if you keep it quiet. 
Young Fellow — What is it? 
Tout — Will yer do the right thing? 
Young Fellow — Of course I will. 
Tout — Well, come ahead. 
(Takes him to window.) 



36 

Young Fellow — Tell •me what it is first. 

Tout — Put up your rags. 

(Young Fellow takes out money.) 

Tout — How much you goin' to put up ? 

Young Fellow — Fifty. 

Tout — Tell him to give you Common Sense. 

Young Fellow — ^No, he has no show. 

Tout — Do as I tell yer. Dey been running him crooked all de 
season. He'll wm it, sure. My brudder ri,des him. 

Young Fellow — It's sure? 

Tout — Yes, go on. 

Young Fellow (To Ticket Seller) — Common Sense. 

Seller — Well, you look as though you needed it. Six hun- 
dred to fifty, Common Sense. 
(Bus.) 

Tout — ril see you after the race. 
(They separate.) 

Spectator (To Old Sport) — What do you think of Sun- 
flower ? 

Old Sport— :>raller. 

Spectator — His owner is backing him heavy I hear. 
Old Sport — Sunflower hasn't got any more show to win than 
that "boss" Mongrel, and he never was in a race in his life. 
(Tout and Young Fellow meet.) 
Young Fellow — I thought you said your brother rode Com- 
mon Sense. 

Tout — Well, who says he doesn't? 
Young Fellow — Why, Saunders rides him. 
Tout — Well, ain't he my brudder? 
Young Fellow — Why, he's a nigger. 
Tout — Say, cully, yer slow. He's my half brudder. 
(Separate.) 

(Penn enters, scans board.) 

(Giles enters, scans board. Both buy tickets — they meet.)_ 
Giles — What the dickens are you doing here ? 
Penn — What the dickens are you doing here? 
Giles — Let's go get a ball. 

(Exeunt.) 
Marker — Be lively, gentlemen ! They'll be at the post in a 
minute ; it's the great Suburban, gentlemen. It's a mile and a 
quarter, gentlemen. Worth $35,000 to the winner this year. 
(Enter Braxton — goes to board — scans it eagerly.) 
Braxton — Mongrel twenty to one. The odds are dropping. 
(To Old Sport.) 
Where do you buy your tickets, here ? 

Old Sport — Right over there, that window. 

(As Braxton goes to window.) 
Tout (Following him) — Say, mister, I've got a big thing for 
you if you'll take it. 

Braxton — Never mind, young man. 

Tout — I tell you there's only one horse in this ra^e. 

Braxton — And that's mine. 

Tout — Pompadour's sure money. 



37 

Braxton — All right, my boy. 
(To Seller.; 
One hundred on Mongrel. 

Seller — Straight or place? 

Braxton — Straight. 

Seller — Two thousand to one hundred, Mongrel. Want any 
more of it, sir ? 

(Bus.) 

Braxton--Yes, I'll take another hundred. 
(Bus.) 

Seller — Two thousand to one hundred, Mongrel. 

(Bus.) 
Tout — Say, you're a jay. 

(Goes away.) 
Old Sport (To Spectator) — Playing some tout's tip. 
Braxton (Goes down) — I've staked it all — all but this. (Counts 
small roll of bills.) One hundred and twenty-six dollars. I'll 
wait here for the report of the race. Is it to be ? Will that horse 
save me? 

Old Sport — I'd like to get up another thousand on Long 
Slipper. 

Box Caller — Sav, Bill, make Long Slipper 8 to i. 
(Bus.) 

Old Sport (Rush for window) — 'Give me two dollars' worth 
of Long Slipper. 

Seller — Sixteen to two, Long Slipper. 

(Telegraph ticks strong.) 
Marker — There they go, gentlemen. 

(Several rush to buy tickets.) 
Box Caller — Say, Bill, who have you got up on Mongrel? 
Marker — Jones. 
Box Caller— Rub it off. 
Marker — All right. 

(Does so.) ' 

Box Caller — Downs rides him. 
Marker — Who ? 

Box Caller— Downs. (Spells— D OWNS.) 
Old Sport — Never heard of him. 
Tout — He's de owner. 

Old Sport — That settles Mongrel. The boys'll never let a 
gentleman jock outride them. 

Tout (To Braxton) — You hear dat? Mongrel is good as beat 
now. 

Old Sport (To Braxton) — You better hedge, my friend. 
Tout — Put a thousand on Pompadour. 

Old Sport — Put it on Long Slipper. Long Slipper's the one 
horse in this race. Don't listen to that damn tout — ^Go 'way ! 

(To tout.) 
Box Caller — Rub out Mongrel's price. 
Marker — No sooner said than done. 

(Bus.) 
Box Caller — Make it fiftv to one. 



38 

Braxton (Goes to window) — One hundred and twenty-six 
on Mongrel. 

Seller — Sixty-three hundred to one hundred twenty-six. Any 
more? 

(Bus.) 
Braxton — No, it's my last. 
Old Sport (Song) — Bid me good bye and go. 

(Laughs.) 
Young Fellow — He's taking big chances. 

Old Sport — Young man, you're always taking big chances 
when you bet on a horse race. 
Spectator — Pop, you're right ! 

Old Sport — ^Right ! I've been following it for the last twelve 
years. Look at that bookmaker — see his diamonds — look at me. 
Where's the percentage? 

Spectator — Why don't you quit it? 

Old Sport — I'm waiting for my horse to come in. What's 
life, anyway, but a race for money ? It's a turn of the card f roni 
Wall Street to faro. 

Braxton — I'll wait here till it's over. 

(Telegraph ticks.) 
Caller — They're at the post, gentlemen. Close her up, Bill. 
Marker — Ever thine ! Here she goes. It's closed, gentlemen. 

(General excitement. Telegraph ticking.) 
Old Sport (To Braxton) — That was a big play you made on 
Mongrel, my friend. 
Braxton — Think so? 

Old Sport — You're dead game, that's plain. Sorry you didn't 
take my tip on Long Slipper. 

Braxton (Solus) — It's a hot-bed of greed and vice. They 
hold the cards, there. If Mongrel comes first, I'll have some of 
the spoil of those thieves to fight the others. If Mongrel comes 

first 

Old Sport — You don't appear like a habitue of these dens of 
iniquity. 

Braxton — ^It's my first experience. 

Old Sport — Rest easy, it won't be your last. There's a crav- 
ing, sir, that always brings you back, win or lose. It's like ma- 
laria, once get it, and it's hard to shake it. 
(Goes up.) 
Caller— Mongrel is cutting up at the post. Won't go in line 
with the others. 

Tout — Oh, he'll tire himself out. 

Caller — Prairie won't get in line. Long Slipper is running 
away. 

Tout — Bye, bve, pop. 
Old Sport— Shut up ! 

(Buzz of conversation.) 
Marker — Be quiet, gentlemen. 

(Ticker strong.) 
Caller — They're ofif! _ >w 

Marker — Be quiet, gentlemen, and you'll get it all. 
Caller — Long Slipper in the lead. 



39 

Old Sport— What did I tell you ? 

Caller — ^Sunflower second, Osceola third. 

Marker — Quiet, gentlemen. 

Caller — ^At the quarter, Long Slipper by half a length. 

Old Sport: — That's my hcu-se — get there, Long Slipper. 

Caller — Sunflower second. Early Rose third. 

Spectator — Early Rose ! 

(Looks at ticket.) 
Tout — Pompadour's layin' back. 

Old Sport — There's no layin' back here. This is a race from 
end to end. 

Caller — At the half. Sunflower, by a head ; Early Rose second, 
Prairie third. 

Spectator — Long Slipper's out of it. 
Tout — -He's shot his bolt. 

Old Sport — Don't you believe it. Long Fitz is on him. He's 
seen that the pace was too hot. He's just taken a wrap on him. 
That Sunflower always sets a killing pace. 
Tout — Fle's killed Long Slipper. 

(Dodges into crowd.) 
Marker — If you want to hear the race you've got to be quiet, 
gentlemen. 

Caller — At the three-quarter. Early Rose, by a length. Min- 
strel second ; Pompadour third. 
(Cheers.) 
Cries — 'He's coming up — It's Pompadour, etc. 
Caller — It's anybody's race yet. 

Tout — Pompadour's a cinch with Harrison up. Wait till he 
begins to hump his back in the stretch. 

Marker — Now, gentlemen, you must keep quiet, if vou don't, 
I can't hear it. 

(Laughter.) 
I'm an interested party. They're nearing the finish. 
Now here comes some more. 

(Silence. Bus. Strikes blackboard with rubber.) 

Caller — At the mile and an eighth. Minstrel (Some ha, 

ha's through room.) By a length, and running easy. Pom- 
padour second. ("Ah's.") Princess Feather third — the others — 
Old Sport — Where are the others ? 

(Laughter, then silence.) 
Caller — The others are coming fast. 
Braxton — No Mongrel yet ! 

Marker — Silence, gentlemen, this is the last quarter. 
Caller- — Into the stretch — Monstrel and Pompadour running 
neck and neck. 

( Cheers — excitement. ) 
Cries — It's Pompadour — it's Pompadour ! 
Marker — Quiet, gentlemen ! 

Caller — Prairie third. Long Slipper coming up fast on the 
outside. 

Old Sport — Ah ! Come, Long Slipper ; come a-running, 
come a-running ! 
(Bus.) 
Marker — Silence ! 



40 

Caller — The others in a bunch and close up, all under whip 
and spur. 

(Silence. Tick distinct and loud. Breathless suspense. 
Tick, tick, tick.) 
It's a close finish ! 

(Tick, tick, tick.) 
Caller — Pompadour wins ! 

(Big cheers. Men wave tickets. Consternation of losers. 
Braxton, all through scene — intense interest. Is down 
stage apart from crowd.) 
Caller — Minstrel second. 
(Cheers.) 
Long Slipper third. 

(Crowd up stage.) 

(Old Sport comes down to Braxton.) 

Old Sport — Well, partner 

Braxton — Is it all over? 

Old Sport — It's all over, including the shouting. They beat 
us, didn't they? Let's go home. (Braxton staggers.) Sit 
down, partner; don't take it so hard. You look bad. Wait, I'll 
get you a drink. 

(Exit.) 

Braxton (Dazed) — Lost, lost — my last dollar. They beat us 
— Mongrel, they beat us. You did your best, I know. It was 
not to be — they beat us — beat us ! 

(Mechanically draws revolver, raises to head — suicidal 
attempt.) 
Caller — Hold on ! 

Braxton — (Realizes — drops pistol. Throws pistol across 
room.) 

(Buries face in hands.) 
Caller — Pompadour didn't win that race. 

(Enter Old Sport with glass of whiskey, drops it.) 
Omnes — Ah ! Ah ! 
Caller — There was a mistake in the colors. 

Cries — Who's the winner? Who got it? 

(Etc.) 
Caller — Why, Mongrel got the race. 

Braxton — Ah ! Mongrel ! Mongrel ! Tom Linson, I'll meet 
you Monday ! 

(Strong excitement in crowd. Men tearing up tickets, etc.) 

CURTAIN, 



41 

ACT V. 

SCENE : Exterior of Giles cottage at Long Branch. 
TIME : Two weeks after the race. 

Mrs. Giles, Alicia and Lawnsdale discovered at rise of curtain. 

Alicia — Just think of it. The very last day we shall be here, 
and he disappoints me. 

Mrs. G.— My dear, men are all alike ; thoughtless when we 
least expect them to be. 

Alicia — But I didn't think Ned was like other men. 

Lawnsdale (Aside) — He certainly isn't like me. 

Alicia (Looking at watch) — It's quarter to seven — he prom- 
ised to be down on the noon train and hasn't got here yet. 

Mrs. G. — My dear Alicia, your father last Tuesday was to 
drive me over to Elberon. I was putting on my bonnet when he 
said : "Haven't you got that on yet? Well, I'll be back in five min- 
utes." John brought the dog cart — fifteen minutes went by — no 
father — a half hour — an hour and a half — and then indignation 
overcame me. I hastily removed my gloves and bonnet, and was 
about to dismiss the cart, when in he came, laughing and making 
a great bustle. 

Lawnsdale — Ah, what did the dear old boy say? 

]\Irs. G. — He looked at me and audaciously gave vent : "Great 
heavens! mother, haven't you got that head-piece on yet?" But 
where do you suppose he had been? Our neighbor, Mr. Barnes, 
met him and dragged him to his hennery, and he became so en- 
grossed in estimating the avoirdupois of the feathered bipeds that 
he forgot our drive. 

Lawnsdale (Aside) — A cock fight. (Aloud) Ah, my dear 
Mrs. Giles, a fellow has to amuse himself. 

Alicia — I do not perceive the necessity. 

Mrs. G. — I have striven ever since our marriage to relieve Mr. 
Giles of that responsibility, but to no purpose. 

Lawnsdale — -Deah me, such a charming ladv. Some chappies 
never know when they are in luck. So you sail to-morrow. 

Mrs. G. — To-morrow night we go on board. We sail at seven 
o'clock the next morning. Oh, that dreadful ocean voyage ! 

Lawnsdale — It's going to be awfully slow when ypu're gone. 
I had promised myself a trip across the pond this summer, but the 
Suburban upset all my plans. 

Mrs. G. — Ah, Mr. Lawnsdale, I am afraid fast horses will be 
your ruin. 

Lawnsdale — It isn't the fast horses that ruin a chappie, it's the 
slow ones. It was all Sunflower's fault. The beastly brute 
wouldn't extend himself. Ah, Miss Havens accompanies you to 
Paris, I believe. 

Mrs. G. — Yes, she is very anxious to go. poor dear. 

Alicia — ^Here he comes at last. No — it's Mr. Downs. 

(Enter, Downs, R.) 

Alicia — Oh. Mr. Downs, how kind of vou not to forget us. 
Mrs. G. (Crosses to Downs)— Mv dear Mr. Downs, so de- 
lighted to see you. 



42 

Downs — Madam, the pleasure is mutual. 
Lawnsdale — Downs, old fellow, how are you ? 
Downs — ^How d'ye, Lawnsdale, how d'ye. The soft balmy air^ 
your beautiful lawns, make me feel like I was in old Kentucky. 
Mrs. G. — Famous for its blue-grass region. 
Alicia — The honor and gallantry of its men. 
Downs — The beauty of its women. 

Lawnsdale — And its deuced fast horses that break us chappies 
in the East. 

Mrs. G. — 'Mr. Downs, you are quite the hero of the season. 
You certainly remain with us this evening. 

Downs — I have been promising myself that pleasure, madam. 
Mrs. G. — We're expecting Mr. Braxton and Mr. Giles every 
moment. 

Alicia — I hear the train coming. I'm going to run down to 
the gate and meet them. 

(Exit R.) 
Mrs. G. — If you will excuse me, gentlemen, I will inform Miss 
Havens of your presence. 

(Exit house R.) 
Lawnsdale — Ah, Downs, that was a great finish you made. 
Downs — I was on the back of a great boss, sab. 

(Sits.) 
Lawnsdale (Ofifering cigarette case) — I, ah, only smoke the 
Turkish. 

Downs (Taking out cigar) — 'Rliged to you, sab. But I stick 
to Henry Clays. 

(Both light and smoke.) 
Lawnsdale — Lucky you rode Mongrel. Your jockey got 
drunk, they tell me. 

Downs — He was drugged. Do you know, I've been suspect- 
ing you of having a hand in that job. 
Lawnsdale — Sir, you shock me. 
Downs — Oh, I know who laid the game. 
Lawnsdale — Then ah, why suspect me? 

Downs— Well, you see, sah, you and he's always been so hand 
and glove like. 

Lawnsdale — Yaas — who ? 
Downs — That Linson fellow. 
Lawnsdale— -He ! 

Downs — Ah, it wasn't the only work he did that day either. 
Lawnsdale — No? 

Downs — No. You see, he'd been backing Pompadour in all 
the winter books. 

Lawnsdale — -Backing Pompadour ? 

Downs — He reckoned your Sunflower wouldn't be fit on the 
day of the race, but you had him in fine shape, sah. 

Lawnsdale — Why, Tom put big money on Sunflower. 
Downs — ^A hundred or so, maybe, and that was to put the hood 
and blinkers on you. You're shocked, I see. 
Lawnsdale — Old chappie ! I'm electrocuted. 
Downs — He feared us both, sah. He drugged my niggah 
jock, but I rode Mongrel myself and euchered him.- You, sah! 
He left you no show at all.' He bribed your jockey to pocket 
Sunflower. 



43 

Lawnsdale — Bribed Ike Ivory to pocket Sunflower? Is this 
straight goods, old chappie? 

Downs — On the honor of a Southern gentleman. 

Lawnsdale — ^Ah. If I'd suspected that, I'd have ridden Sun- 
flower myself. I'll be even up with Tom Linson for this. Why, 
I'm here now as a favor to him, to deliver this letter personally 
to Miss Havens. It's a request for a private interview. Says if 
he can see her once he'll show how he's been wronged. He's 
waiting down on the beach now for his answer. I'll go down 
there and punch his head. 
(Starts to go L.) 

Downs — Hold on a minute. If I was you I'd deliver the letter 
first. 

Lawnsdale — Really, old chappie, after what you've told me 
you couldn't expect it. 

Downs — Except as a possible chance to be even up with the 
gentleman. 

Lawnsdale — You'll have to dilate, old chappie. 

Downs — I apprehend it's Linson's play to renew his engage- 
ment to Miss Havens. 

Lawnsdale — Yaas. 

Downs — There may linger in her heart some affection for the 
rascal, some regret ; if so, she'll meet him. 

Lawnsdale — 'Well ? 

Downs — Of course Linson swears there's nothing 'tween him- 
self and Mrs. Braxton. 

Lawnsdale — He told me in confidence that she fell in love with 
him; that it was her insane jealousy that made all the scandal. 
He says she slandered Faith Havens to break off the match. 

Downs — 'He told you that? 

Lawnsdale— Yaas ! Say, Tom and Mrs. Braxton knew each 
other long before they met in Braxton's house. 

Downs — 'How do you know? 

Lawnsdale — I was a-lying down on the beach one night, 
watching the waves — had a white duck suit on — you couldn't tell 
me from the sand — they came along arm in arm. She said : "Tom, 
isn't this like the old days — ^the week before our marriage." 

Downs — By Gad ! that sounds like 

Lawnsdale — She's really Tom Linson's wife. 

Downs — Say, you got more in that mushmelon (Touching 
Lawnsdale's head) than I gave you credit for. I guess I'll take a 
hand in this game. (Takes letter from Linson, looking at it) I 
reckon if the lady knew Linson was to meet Miss Havens 

Lawnsdale — ^Bah Jove ! old chappie, she shall know it. 

Downs — 'How far is it to Braxton Villa? 

Lawnsdale — About five minutes' stroll — down the beach. 

Downs (Takes his arm, going up to house) — Let's deliver the 
letter; if the answer's all right, you can see Linson and I'll see 
(Laughs) the lady. 

Lawnsdale — Downs, old chappie, you're a peach. 
(Exeunt house R. U. E.) 

(Enter Alicia and Penn, R.) 

Alicia — But you shouldn't let business of any kind detain you 
to-day. 



44 

JPenn — But this business had to be closed up before Miss Ha- 
vens left. 

Alicia — ^Oh, it concerned Miss Havens. Tell me all about it 
and I'll forgive you. 

Penn — Impossible, Alicia — that is a secret. 

Alicia — Of course it's a secret. As if I didn't know that. 
Every time you call you and she have little quiet talks of your 
own — and I don't like it. There ! 

Penn — Oh, you don't! I believe you're jealous. 

Alicia — ^Jealous ! Indeed I'm not. Only I think you ought to 
tell me. 

Penn — So I will tell you— some time. 
(Tries to kiss her.) 

Alicia — Oh, here's papa ! (Kisses him) 

(Enter Giles, followed by Braxton.) 
And Mr. Braxton. (Business) It's so late we feared you were 
not coming. 

Braxton — -No danger of that. Penn, how are 

Alicia — I'll run in and tell mamma. 
(Exit house.) 

Penn (To Braxton) — You're looking well, sir. 

Braxton — Thanks, Penn ; I can't complain. 

Giles — ^Complain — certainly not ; you've won your fight. 

Penn — They say you've snowed Linson under. I congratulate 
you. 

Braxton — I owe my success to my friends — Downs and his 
horse. Mongrel- — my banker, who 

Giles — There, there, cut that. 

Braxton — Who stood by me— and another, one who ran enor- 
mous risks and held the market from breaking on me. One whom 
I have called my unknown friend— though why he should have 
acted in the dark I cannot understand. 

Penn — What do you mean ? 

Giles — See here, Penn, we know all about your deals in the 
grain market. 

Braxton — It is you, my boy, I have to thank most of all. You 
staked a fortune to save me. 
(Takes Penn's hand.) 

Giles — I had no idea that you were a millionaire. 

Penn — The money was not mine. I acted for another. 

Giles— Ah ! 

Braxton — For another 

Penn — One whose name I am not at liberty to divulge. 

Giles — A woman? 

Penn — Why a woman? 

Giles — Because only a boy or a woman would run such a risk. 

Penn — Indeed. Well, sir, I'm pleased to inform you that the 
boy made a neat commission for himself and placed a handsome 
profit to the credit of the lady. 

Giles (Grasps Penn's hand warmly) — My son, I'll take you 
•into partnership. 

Penn^AU right. I'll hold you to that. ^ 

(Exit house.) 

Giles-;-I ,\uas right. It was Faith Havens. 
L of C. 



45 

Braxton — Faith Havens ! 

Giles (Looks off R.) — Hello! who's that lady getting out of 
that dog cart. By George! it's your wife. 

Braxton — ^She 

Giles — She's coming in. 

Braxton — Let me receive her. 

Giles — All right, friend Braxton, I'll step into the house. 

(Enter Viola, R.) 

Viola— So, you are here. I've come over for a little talk. 

Braxton — Why did you not send for me ? 

Viola — Oh, I was driving by and I thought I'd drop in — you 
see, I knew where to find you. Well, what are w^e going to do 
about it all ? 

Braxton — My business affairs are wound up. I shall leave 
New York. 

Viola — For Paris? 

Braxton— No. I may drift back to the old life in California. 

Viola — I thought you were wedded to a life of speculation. 

Braxton — I think I prefer wood-chopping. 

Viola — They say you doubled your fortune in your last ven- 
ture. 

Braxton — I did not lose. 

Viola— But I did. 

Braxton — You played the wrong side of the market. 

Viola — Everything is lost. 
( Excitedly. ) 

Braxton — The house in town? 

Viola — Gone with the rest. 

Braxton — You were unfortunate. 

Viola — Joseph Braxton, when I became your wife 

Braxton — Need w^e discuss the past? It is buried. 

Viola — The evil of to-day is but the ghost of those dead days. 
As your wife, I hoped to forget the lover I thought faithless, to 
find in your affection solace for all I had endured ; I tried to make 
you happy, and had just begun to see some light in life, when 
in your friend I found the man I loved. 

B raxton — Lin son. 
(Sits.) 

Viola — Years before I ever met you we had been lovers. I 
dared not tell you — and we — we both were weak. I tried to be 
loyal — but I loved him still. When you asked my aid it was too 
late. What you had every right to claim, I gave to him. 

Braxton (Rises) — That on the wreck of my fortunes he might 
build his own. 

Viola — I know that you despise me, but not as I despise my- 
self ; as you asked help of me that dreadful night, I now plead for 
your compassion. Give me one kind word — one look — I don't 
ask you to forgive — only to pity me ! 

Braxton — Then it was from you he obtained the money with 
which he fought me. 
Viola — He lost. 

Braxton — And you come to me for more? 
Viola — I want to go away — to. hide from all who ever knew 
me — I dare not meet old friends, the shame is unbearable. 



46 

Braxton — You wish to go away alone? 

Viola — Yes, yes, alone. 

Braxton — I don't believe you. You want to go away with 
him. Oh, no. I have been a fool and blind. But that's over. 
You have had your last laugh at the expense of Joseph Braxton, 
(Goes up as if to depart.) 

Viola — Wait ! Admitted that what you say of my intentions 
is true — the advantage would be on your side — it. will give you 
grounds for divorce. 

Braxton (Turning) — -And you expect me to pay you to drag 
my name in the dust still further? Pay you for proofs of your 
infamy ? No ! 

Viola — Then you force me into the courts and compel me un- 
willingly to use the name of Faith Havens. 

Braxton (Comes down) — Do you mean that you would bring 
a suit of divorce against me — using the name of that innocent 
girl?^ 

A'iola— As co-respondent? Yes. You can save her; vou love 
her. Oh, my woman's eyes have seen that — take the freedom I 
ofTer; why should you care what I do, or where I go — you hesi- 
tate. I thought you were made of nobler metal. Is your money 
more to you than her good name? Oil, yes, I know she is inno- 
cent — I might lose my case, but think what she would suffer. 

Braxton (Crosses to her; intense feeling; suppressed) — 
Madam ! Your price ! 

Viola — I knew your good sense hadn't deserted you. Call at 
the cottage later in the evening and we will arrange the terms. 

(Braxton looks at her scornfully; crosses and exits into 
the house.) 

Viola (Shrugs) — Well, he shall pay me the money, and there's 
an end to it all. (Starts as if to exit) Why, here comes Tom. 
I — I wonder 

(She steps behind bush beside the rustic summer house as 
Linson enters R. and passes up into the summer house.) 
Linson (Stage darkens and electric lights turned on in Giles' 
house) — Wouldn't there be a row if she knew of this? It's a fool- 
ish move. Suppose I set things straight with Faith. Nothing 
"an come of it. 

(Enter, Faith, house.) 

Well, I shall see her — hear her voice — bid her good-bye, and that's 
something. (Faith comes down stage) You received my note? 
(Faith bows) Miss Havens, you regard me as a man devoid of 
honor. 

Faith — I do. 

Linson — Your reason for the assertion ? 

Faith — You sought the ruin of your friend. 

Linson — I am here to refute the charge, to prove its falseness, 
and exonerate myself before you. I speculated on the other side 
of the market; in the end he won — I lost. I speculated where 
I saw the greatest chance to win. He did the same. Unfriendly 
one might term it ; but I see nothing dishonorable. Wh^, brothers 
forget their blood-ties on the floor of the Stock Exchange. 

Faith — Proceed ! 



47 

Linson — I hold here the acknowledgment of Joseph JJraxton 
that the dollars-and-cents column between us is balanced. His 
stocks, his collaterals, a perfect accounting; he cannot point to 
one dishonest action in our business relations. That gold mine, I 
advised the purchase, true; am 1 a swindler because my judg- 
ment was at fault? 

Faith — 1 am listening. 

Linson — You must pardon me if I now refer to what I would 
forever bury in silence, but 1 should be unjust to myself, unjust 
to you. It is with the keenest anguish 1 recall the occasion — the 
night at Braxton \'illa, the night you came to Mr. Giles' home, the 
night when Joseph Braxton hurled that terrible accusation which 
lost me your respect and esteem. 

Faith — You deceive yourself; the accusation did not influence 

my appreciation of }our private character ; that I knew 

Linson — Was 

Faith — A traitor ! 

Linson — \Miat actions of mine led you to believe me so base? 
Faith — j\lr. Linson, I was once an unwilling witness of a scene 
in which you disclosed your true self. 
Linson — How and where? 

Faith — The day of our arrival at Long Branch. The winding 
path at Braxton Villa — I saw you pass your arm around her — the 
wife of your friend. 

Linson — I recall the scene, though unaware that you were an 
auditor. That was previous to our betrothal, when you pledged 
your hand to one you believed a villain. I can hardly credit it. 
Faith — My pledge was never given ; you deceived yourself, and 
I permitted you to do so. It was to save one I loved from dis- 
honor — my friend, Viola Braxton — and to expose your duplicity. 
Linson — Duplicity? I am guilty of none. It is she, the wo- 
man who played the temptress and compromised me. In all this 
I am the victim, the martyr; for. Faith Havens, I love you with 

a love as pure as the lights of heaven ! I love you 

(Faith shrinking away, Viola entering, comes between.) 

Linson — I love you 

(Says to Viola, meaning Faith.) 
Viola — It is false ! You never loved me, and I have wasted 
my heart and soul on you. 

(Braxton enters, house R. U. E.) 

Do you remember these words: "Thomas Linson, I will be true 
to you as long as you are true to me" ? 

Linson (Takes her by arm) — ^Come away. 

Viola — I will not. 

Linson — You will. 

Braxton (Coming between, hurling Linson off) — Take your 
hands off her or I'll brain you! (To Viola) You are still my 
wife. 

Viola — No, no, not your wife; not yours, but his, his wife — 
there stands my husband. 
(Points to Linson.) 

Braxton — ^You're mad 

Viola — Ask him if I am mad! Ask him if the woman he 
deserted on her bridal night is mad! Ask him if the wife who 



48 

believed him dead — not false — is mad ! Ask him if the woman he 
found in your home, bearing your name, is mad ! Ask him of his 
treachery to you, to her, to me — I tell you, I am Mrs. Linson. 

Braxton — I pity you ! 

Viola — I loved this man. (Referring to Linson) Oh, the 
purity of first love. The purity was defiled when I became his 
accomplice. The love has been killed to-night. (To Faith) 1 
wronged you. I regret it. (Crosses to Linson) I will never 
look on your face again. 

(Exit.) 

Linson — It's a trick. The woman lies. 

Braxton (Intense) — The most fiendish, the most treacherous 
savage that ever scalped a sleeping foe — the most loathsome half- 
breed that ever groveled on the plains, would spurn a white-skin 
dog who skulked behind a squaw to knife her. Go ! 

(Linson exit.) 

(Braxton turns to Faith. Faith has been s.tanding in- 
tensely quiet as if wrought up to a high pitch of excite- 
ment. Collapses as Braxton turns to her.) 

Faith (Sinking in chair) — Oh, it was all so terrible! 

Braxton (At her side, throwing arms around her) — There, 
there. It's all over, it's all over. They're gone, gone out of your 
life, gone out of my life forever. 

(Both walk up towards house.) 
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